Alaafin Absent as Oyo Begins 50th Anniversary in Ibadan
Oyo State on Monday launched activities to commemorate its 50th anniversary, but the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, did not attend the opening ceremony held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
The absence of the revered monarch was noticeable at the event, which featured a welcome address by Governor Seyi Makinde and a goodwill message from the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Edward Ogundoyin.
Other traditional rulers, including the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, were present, while the seat designated for the Alaafin remained unoccupied.
Oyo State was established on February 3, 1976, by the military administration of the late General Murtala Mohammed, with Brigadier David Jemibewon serving as its first military governor.
Observers noted that the Alaafin’s absence has further fueled public perceptions of strained relations between him and the Olubadan.
This follows a recent incident involving both monarchs at the 2026 interfaith gathering near the Oyo State House of Assembly, where an exchange between them attracted widespread public attention.
Footage from the gathering that later circulated on social media showed the Olubadan walking toward a seat beside the Alaafin, who had already been seated. As the Olubadan approached, the Alaafin reportedly stretched out his hand for a handshake, which was not reciprocated, prompting him to retract his hand.
In the aftermath, a coalition of traditional leaders, including monarchs, mogajis, baales and notable Ibadan indigenes, issued a statement criticizing what they described as disrespect toward Ibadan’s traditional institutions.
They maintained that Ibadan is not subordinate to the Alaafin and argued that extending a handshake while seated was against customary etiquette.
The group called on Governor Makinde to step in, warning that failure to address the matter could escalate tensions between both sides.
They added that while Ibadan residents had previously shown restraint, further actions perceived as belittling their traditions would no longer be tolerated.
