A recent visit by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, to Lagos State has generated significant online buzz, not for the high-level meetings, but for a brief cultural encounter captured on video. The monarch was in Lagos on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, where he was received by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and attended the Storytellers Conference at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts.
The Viral Handshake Moment
The focal point of the visit emerged from a clip filmed in an airport lounge. In the video, a female executive extended her hand for a handshake with the revered traditional ruler. However, in a swift and decisive move, a security aide to the king intervened, blocking the physical contact. The Olu of Warri acknowledged the woman's gesture with a nod, adhering strictly to traditional protocols that govern interactions with the throne.
This protocol is rooted in the customs of many Nigerian kingdoms, where showing deference to a monarch often involves bowing, kneeling, or prostrating rather than direct handshakes, regardless of the greeter's gender or status.
Social Media Erupts with Mixed Reactions
The video quickly spread across social media platforms, sparking a heated debate among netizens. Opinions were sharply divided, reflecting a clash between cultural preservation and contemporary social norms.
Some users strongly defended the aide's action. One commenter, Lucid_AMG, stated, "Very good. That’s the culture!", drawing a comparison to security for international celebrities. Another, MCARIZONA5, framed it within broader African etiquette, saying, "It’s not normal for a woman to shake a man in Africa. Now she will learn and do better."
Others were critical of the protocol itself. User CHUNLI__LI reacted dismissively, questioning the necessity of such deference. Meanwhile, Lord_Of_Warri offered a more sympathetic view towards the woman: "She was just excited to see the king of Warri not everyone knows culture."
Context and Other Royal Engagements
The Lagos visit was part of the monarch's official engagements. In a lighter follow-up, the palace also shared a video of the Olu of Warri personally inspecting the Trans-Warri-Ode-Itsekiri Road project while riding a scooter, showcasing a hands-on approach to development.
This incident follows other notable public appearances by the king, including a recent visit from BBNaija reality stars Kellyrae and Kassia, who were received in full traditional regalia. That encounter was celebrated by fans who recalled prophecies from the show about being honoured by royalty.
The online discourse surrounding the handshake block highlights the ongoing negotiation between Nigeria's deep-rooted traditional institutions and the evolving practices of modern public interaction. It serves as a public reminder of the unique cultural protocols that surround the country's royal figures.
