Handshake Controversy: ‘Alaafin Will Have Cause to Regret’ — Ibadan Leaders Threaten Fresh Action

Ibadan traditional leaders, comprising monarchs, Mogajis, Baales and prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland, have once again issued a strong warning to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, over what they described as persistent acts of disrespect toward the Olubadan stool and the Ibadan traditional institution.

The warning followed an incident at the Agodi Government House, Ibadan, on Tuesday, where Oba Owoade was said to have remained seated while stretching out his hand to greet the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, during an official event. Although the Olubadan reportedly ignored the gesture without protest, the action has since generated outrage among Ibadan traditional stakeholders.
Reacting to the incident, the leaders described the conduct as a serious affront not only to the Olubadan but to the entire Ibadan traditional system. They stressed that the episode should be taken as a final warning, noting that any further display of disrespect by the Alaafin would be met with a decisive response.
Their position was contained in a joint statement signed by the President of the Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and the Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade. The statement described the Alaafin’s behaviour as highly embarrassing and inappropriate for a traditional ruler of his status.
According to the statement, Ibadan traditional authorities, including Kabiyesis, chiefs, Mogajis and Baales, are fully prepared to confront and address any action capable of bringing ridicule to the Ibadan traditional institution.
The leaders also pointed out that Oba Adewolu Ladoja is superior to the Alaafin in age, experience, achievements and exposure, citing his service as a former senator, former governor, accomplished businessman and the recognised custodian of Ibadan traditional affairs.
“The continuous disrespect shown by the Alaafin to the stool of the Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional institution has become unbearable,” the statement read. “If Governor Seyi Makinde fails to caution him and Ibadan people are forced to react, the Alaafin will regret his actions.”
They further accused the Alaafin of repeatedly displaying what they termed uncultured behaviour toward Ibadan traditional stools, warning that such conduct must come to an end.
“Ibadan people are not cowards. We are fearless, but we have exercised restraint in the interest of peace,” the statement added. “Our culture and traditions are sacred, and anything that ridicules them will be firmly resisted.”
The stakeholders emphasised that the Alaafin’s decision to remain seated while stretching out his hand to greet the 82-year-old Olubadan was unacceptable, adding that not greeting at all would have been less offensive.
The statement concluded by stressing that Ibadanland has never been subordinate to the Alaafin, warning that any further provocation would no longer be tolerated.