Ibadan traditional stakeholders have issued a strong warning to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, following a controversial incident involving the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at a recent public function.
The warning comes after a viral video showed the Alaafin, while seated, extending his hand to greet the Olubadan during an event held at the Agodi Government House in Ibadan. The Olubadan did not reciprocate the gesture and instead proceeded to greet other dignitaries, a moment that quickly ignited widespread debate online.
Reacting to the incident, a coalition of Ibadan traditional stakeholders—made up of monarchs, Mogajis, Baales, and prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland—condemned the Alaafin’s action, describing it as disrespectful to the Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional institution.
In a jointly signed statement by the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and the Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade, the stakeholders said the conduct was an embarrassment and warned against any repeat.
They stressed that the Olubadan’s stool is highly revered and must be accorded due respect, adding that Ibadan would not tolerate actions capable of ridiculing its cultural values and traditions.
According to the statement, stretching out a hand while seated to greet the Olubadan—an elderly monarch with decades of public service—was unacceptable and insulting, regardless of status. The stakeholders further emphasized that Ibadan has never been subordinate to the Alaafin’s throne and rejected any suggestion of supremacy over Ibadanland.
They warned that continued disrespect could provoke a firm response from Ibadan traditional authorities if not properly addressed, calling on the Oyo State Government to intervene and caution the Alaafin.
The incident has continued to generate mixed reactions among the public, with some calling for mutual respect among traditional rulers, while others debated historical hierarchies between Ibadan and Oyo.
Despite the controversy, stakeholders urged restraint and respect for tradition, reaffirming Ibadan’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and dignity.
