Ladoja Clears Air on Alleged Alaafin Snub, Says No Disrespect Intended’
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has dismissed claims that he deliberately snubbed the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, describing the incident as a misunderstanding that has been exaggerated on social media.
The controversy followed a viral video from a recent interfaith programme held in Ibadan, where the Alaafin was seen extending his hand in what appeared to be a handshake gesture while the Olubadan took his seat without reciprocating. The clip sparked widespread debate online, with many interpreting the moment as a sign of disrespect and fuelling discussions about royal protocol and hierarchy among Yoruba traditional institutions. Reacting to the backlash, Oba Ladoja said there was no intention whatsoever to disrespect the Alaafin or any traditional ruler at the event. According to him, the short video circulating online did not capture the full sequence of events. The Olubadan explained that he arrived at the venue when proceedings were already ongoing and was focused on moving directly to his designated seat without disrupting the programme. He noted that the seating arrangement required careful movement, as he was positioned between the Alaafin and another monarch, adding that his attention at the time was on protocol and order rather than ignoring any greeting. There was no disrespect intended,” the monarch said, stressing that he holds the Alaafin and other Yoruba obas in high regard. He also cautioned against drawing conclusions from incomplete video clips, urging the public to avoid actions or commentary that could strain long-standing cultural relationships. The incident has, however, drawn reactions from traditional stakeholders in Ibadan, some of whom publicly defended the Olubadan. The group warned against what they described as attempts to portray Ibadan’s traditional stool as subordinate to any other, insisting on mutual respect among Yoruba monarchs. Observers say the episode has reopened sensitive conversations about traditional etiquette, inter-royal relations and the role of social media in amplifying moments that were previously resolved quietly within cultural institutions. Despite the controversy, Oba Ladoja called for calm and unity, emphasizing that traditional rulers should remain symbols of peace and cohesion rather than division. He reiterated his commitment to harmonious relations with the Alaafin of Oyo and other traditional leaders across the South-West.
