An uncomfortable moment between two of southwestern Nigeria’s foremost traditional rulers at a high-profile inter-faith service in Ibadan on Monday has ignited public debate over protocol, respect and long-standing traditional norms. The incident, widely circulated in video clips from the event, appeared to show the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Sen.) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I), not reciprocating a greeting extended by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I, sparking reactions from observers and citizens alike.
The inter-faith gathering was held at the Grand Space, behind the Oyo State House of Assembly, Agodi Secretariat, a venue for state-sponsored events that bring together religious, political and traditional leaders to promote unity across faiths. Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State was among dignitaries present.
According to eyewitness accounts, as captured in widely shared videos, the Alaafin was seated when he extended his right hand in what appeared to be a gesture of courtesy and fellowship toward the Olubadan upon his arrival at the service. However, the Olubadan did not take the offered handshake and instead greeted Governor Makinde and other officials before proceeding directly to his seat.
Someone said, “What Kabiyesi, the Paramount Ruler, Alaafin, did, was an extension of the hand of fellowship and love for unity within the traditional circle.”
Despite that explanation, the episode was interpreted in various ways, and not without strong opinions on social media and traditional protocol forums.
Reactions to the clip have been wide-ranging. Some commentators argued that the Olubadan may have simply not seen the gesture, suggesting no deliberate rebuff. Others viewed the interaction through the lens of Yoruba customary hierarchies, with discussions over whether age, rank or traditional precedence should guide such greetings.
A social media user commenting on the viral clip argued that, “There’s obviously an issue between them, but…some of you don’t know the history of the Alaafin and Olubadan … you’re only arguing from a superiority standpoint.”
Meanwhile, critics of the Alaafin’s gesture said that established protocols among Yoruba monarchs do not always align with ordinary social courtesies and should be clearly understood before drawing conclusions.
The brief but symbolic incident comes against a backdrop of ongoing discourse about the roles and relationships of Yoruba traditional rulers. In recent months, leaders across Oyo State have navigated sensitive discussions relating to hierarchy, history and the functions of monarchs within the state’s traditional council.
Just weeks earlier, Governor Makinde hosted both the Alaafin and the Olubadan for a closed-door meeting, underlining efforts to maintain cordial relations among prominent traditional figures.
Ibadan stakeholders have also called for respect for the independence and historical dignity of the Olubadan stool, cautioning against any actions that might be perceived as undermining Ibadan’s traditional status.
As of the time of filing, neither palace, at the Olubadan’s nor the Alaafin’s, has issued an official statement addressing the visual clip or the broader implications of the gesture. Governor Makinde has also remained publicly silent on the matter.
Observers of Yoruba traditional institutions have urged calm and respectful dialogue, emphasising the importance of preserving the dignity of revered monarchies and avoiding public interpretations of isolated actions. They note that maintaining unity among traditional leaders is vital, particularly at events aimed at promoting inter-faith harmony and community cohesion.
