A legal expert has provided a sharp analysis of the viral incident involving two of Yorubaland's most prominent monarchs, framing it as a sign of evolving power structures. The event, which took place in early January 2026, saw the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, visibly snub a handshake offered by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I.
Legal Perspective on a Royal Snub
Lawyer Bolanle Cole, reacting to the widely circulated video, emphasized a modern principle: respect in the contemporary context must be earned, not demanded based on historical hierarchy. He directly addressed the Alaafin, stating, "I think someone should tell the Alaafin of Oyo that respect begets respect. It cannot be compelled. Genuine respect is earned, not enforced."
Cole pointed out that the incident highlights a significant shift away from the ancient power dynamics of the old Oyo Empire, where the Alaafin held paramount status. "Someone should also remind the Alaafin that he is no longer living in the past. This is the 21st century. Traditional power dynamics have changed," he argued in a tweet.
The New Reality of Traditional Authority
In a striking comparison to underline his point, the lawyer noted the diminished temporal power of modern monarchs. He stated that today, "even an ordinary local government chairman can depose a monarch." This blunt assessment underscores a perceived reality where constitutional and administrative authorities now wield power that historically resided with traditional institutions.
The lawyer concluded that, given this new context, Oba Akeem Owoade I "can hardly complain about the snub" from the Olubadan. His commentary suggests that interactions between traditional rulers are now guided more by contemporary mutual courtesy than by rigid, historical protocols.
Mixed Public Reactions to the Commentary
The lawyer's views sparked a heated debate online, dividing netizens along lines of tradition versus modernity.
Many supporters of the Alaafin cited ancestral precedent and protocol. User Leyekay commented, "You cannot call someone Alaafin and expect him to stand up to greet Olubadan... y’all can twist the narrative as you like." Another user, ruzzythadon, questioned, "Make Alaafin stand up to greet Olubadan, Are you people insane?"
Others pointed to perceived double standards, referencing a previous event where the Alaafin was greeted while seated. User Captain4rier recalled, "During the last south west traditional rulers meeting, Alaafin Owoade... walked to the front of Ooni and Olubadan and the duo took his handshake on sit."
However, some agreed with the lawyer's stance on earned respect. User RealSeanCurtis supported the Olubadan's action, saying, "He could have let the Olu Ibadan seat and then offer a handshake. Not seating down like a boss and greeting ur father in age like ur junior."
This incident is not the Alaafin's first public entanglement in matters of hierarchy. Legit.ng had previously reported on a perceived rivalry between the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye. The latest event adds another layer to the ongoing public discourse about status and protocol among Nigeria's revered traditional institutions.
