A recent public event in Ibadan has sparked a major controversy in Nigeria's traditional circles, leading to a stern warning from Ibadan stakeholders to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.
The Viral Incident That Started It All
The drama unfolded at a function held at the Agodi Government House in Ibadan. A video that went viral online captured the moment the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, extended his hand for a handshake while remaining seated to greet the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. In the clip, the 82-year-old Olubadan, a former senator and governor, visibly snubbed the proffered handshake.
The incident, which occurred recently, quickly ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media, with many debating the protocols and respect due to traditional institutions.
Ibadan Stakeholders React Strongly
In response to the uproar, traditional stakeholders in Ibadan have issued a forceful statement condemning the Alaafin's conduct. The group, which includes monarchs, Mogajis, Baales, and prominent sons and daughters of Ibadan, described the act as "a gross insult" and "an embarrassment of the highest order."
The statement was jointly signed by Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, President of the Ibadan Mogajis, and Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade, Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI).
They explicitly cautioned the Alaafin against any further disrespect towards the revered stool of the Olubadan and the wider Ibadan traditional institution. The stakeholders warned that any future aggravation would be met with a "strong and decisive response" from all Ibadan traditional leaders.
A History of Tension and a Clear Warning
The stakeholders' statement highlighted deeper issues, alleging a pattern of disrespect. It read in part: "The continuous disrespect of the Alaafin towards the stool of Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional institution is becoming intolerable. If Governor Makinde fails to caution him and Ibadan people are pushed into reacting, the Alaafin will regret his actions."
They strongly objected to the Alaafin's seated posture while offering the handshake to the elderly Olubadan, emphasizing that Ibadanland has never been subordinate to the Alaafin. The statement concluded with a defiant note: "Ibadan mesi o go" (Ibadan cannot be conquered).
The stakeholders also took the opportunity to list Olubadan Oba Ladoja's credentials as a former senator, governor, international figure, and successful businessman, underscoring his stature.
Mixed Public Reactions
The online community remains divided on the incident. Some users, like solataiwo7, sided with the Olubadan, calling it a matter of basic courtesy and labeling supremacy claims as "archaic." Others, such as gazomoney, questioned the Olubadan's own respect for tradition, while user thisisadewale_ defended the Alaafin, citing traditional Yoruba proverbs about the Alaafin's status.
This event stands in contrast to other recent public activities of the Alaafin, who just recently celebrated BBNaija winner Imisioluwa (Imisi) on his Instagram story.
The ball is now in the court of the traditional institutions and potentially the state government, as the warning from Ibadan's leaders marks a significant escalation in this royal dispute.
