Traditional stakeholders in Ibadan have issued a warning to the Alaafin of Oyo Oba Abimbola Owoade over a gesture directed at the Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
The warning followed a meeting of Ibadan traditional authorities, including monarchs, Mogajis, Baales and indigenes, held after a recent public interaction involving both rulers.
In a statement jointly signed by the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Asimiyu Ariori and the coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Nurudeen Akinade, the stakeholders said the Alaafin stretched his hand while seated to greet the Olubadan during a public event, an act they said was not in line with Ibadan traditional protocol.
The stakeholders said the Olubadan’s response to the gesture was measured, adding that further actions viewed as disregard for Ibadan customs would attract a response from traditional authorities in the city.
The statement referenced the Olubadan’s position within Ibadanland and his public service record, noting that he is 82 years old and has served as a senator and governor.
The stakeholders also called on Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene, warning that continued tension could affect relations between the traditional institutions of Ibadan and Oyo.
They stated that Ibadan people value their traditions and would respond to any action they consider capable of undermining the dignity of the Olubadan stool.
The group further maintained that Ibadanland is not under the authority of the Alaafin and said any conduct perceived as diminishing the status of the Olubadan would not be accepted.
The statement concluded that while the Alaafin is not compelled to greet the Olubadan, stretching a hand while seated during a greeting was viewed as inappropriate by Ibadan traditional leaders.
The warning follows an interaction on Monday at an interfaith gathering organised by the Oyo State Government at the Secretariat Grand Space, behind the Oyo State House of Assembly, Ibadan.
During the gathering, the Alaafin, who was seated, extended his hand to greet the Olubadan.
Oba Ladoja did not respond to the gesture and instead greeted the Soun of Ogbomoso Oba Afolabi Olaoye, before exchanging greetings with Governor Makinde and other dignitaries and taking his seat.
The moment was witnessed by attendees and later circulated on social media, where it generated discussions on traditional protocol and hierarchy in Oyo State.
