A brief interaction between two of Nigeria’s most prominent Yoruba traditional rulers has escalated into a public controversy, exposing longstanding historical sensitivities around status and hierarchy.
A viral video from an interfaith gathering in Ibadan on Monday, January 12, 2026, shows His Imperial Majesty, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, seated as His Royal Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, approaches. The Alaafin extends his hand in greeting, but the Olubadan passes by without acknowledging the gesture, prompting the Alaafin to withdraw his hand.
The moment has ignited strong reactions from leaders within the Ibadan traditional system. In a joint statement, Ibadan monarchs, chiefs, and prominent figures condemned the Alaafin’s action as a profound disrespect, arguing that offering a handshake while remaining seated—especially to an elder statesman and former governor like Oba Ladoja—is culturally inappropriate.
"The Alaafin’s disrespect to the Olubadan stool and traditional institution is getting out of hand," the statement read. The group called on Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene and caution the Alaafin against what they termed a "series of uncultured attitudes."
They warned that the people of Ibadan would no longer tolerate perceived insults to their traditions, stating, "If Governor Seyi Makinde does not caution him... the Oyo monarch will have only himself to blame."
The incident taps into deep-seated historical narratives concerning the supremacy and relationship between the ancient Oyo Empire and the historically powerful Ibadan kingdom. While Governor Makinde, who also attended the event, made no direct reference to the altercation in his social media posts about the gathering, the debate over royal protocol and mutual respect continues to dominate public discussion.
The state government has not issued an official comment on the matter.
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