Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has received wide commendation for his public show of respect towards the Shehu of Borno, His Royal Highness Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, during a recent meeting of traditional rulers held in Lagos.
Reports from the event indicated that the Shehu of Borno, one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected monarchs, was initially not assigned a seat at the high table by the organisers. He was instead seated among the general audience.
Eyewitnesses said that upon noticing the oversight, Governor Buni immediately stood up, approached the Shehu, knelt down to greet him, and personally escorted him to the high table. The governor reportedly relinquished his own seat for the monarch and quietly took another place.
The gesture, which drew applause from dignitaries and attendees, has been widely praised across the country as a mark of humility, cultural awareness, and respect for traditional institutions.
Commentators described the incident as a reminder of the historical significance of the Kanem-Borno Empire, from which the Shehu of Borno’s throne originated — a kingdom that predated the Sokoto Caliphate and remains one of Africa’s oldest Islamic dynasties.
Observers also noted that the governor’s action underscored the importance of recognising traditional hierarchies and ensuring due protocol at national gatherings involving royal fathers.
Governor Buni’s conduct has since gone viral on social media, with many Nigerians describing it as an inspiring example of humility and reverence for history.
