A public inter-faith gathering in Ibadan has become the centre of a major social media storm after a video captured a perceived snub between two of Yorubaland's most prominent monarchs.
The Incident That Sparked a Buzz
The event took place on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the Grand Space, located behind the Oyo State House of Assembly in the Agodi Secretariat area of Ibadan. The gathering was attended by Governor Seyi Makinde and other top government officials.
In the now-viral clip, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, is seen extending his hand in a clear gesture of greeting towards the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja (Arusa I). However, the Olubadan, who had just finished exchanging pleasantries with the governor, reportedly walked past the Alaafin's outstretched hand without acknowledging it and proceeded directly to his seat.
Social Media Erupts with Theories
The video quickly ignited a firestorm of interpretations and debates across various social media platforms. Netizens analysed the footage frame by frame, offering contrasting views on the incident's meaning.
Some commentators argued that the Olubadan might not have seen the hand due to the crowd or his direction of movement. Others, however, were convinced the act was deliberate and pointed to a possible deeper issue between the two royal stools.
User @tbaba22 commented on the age and respect dynamic, stating: "I don’t think it’s nice for Olubadan to ignore him publicly like that... Baba Ladoja is way older than him, he should promote unity."
Another user, @seekthedreamer, focused on traditional protocol: "This is disrespect from Olu Ibadan towards Alafin, in Yoruba tradition, it's a sign of respect for a higher ranking Oba to remain seated when greeting a lower ranking king."
@Ayoappeal suggested a pre-existing issue: "There’s obviously an issue between them, but notwithstanding, he is supposed to stand up to greet the Olubadan..."
Context and Historical Undertones
This incident occurs against a backdrop where the Alaafin has been historically engaged in discussions about supremacy among Yoruba Obas, notably with the Ooni of Ife. The perceived snub by the Olubadan, therefore, is being scrutinised as a potential sign of a deeper rift between the ancient stools of Oyo and Ibadan.
Observers are questioning whether this public moment signifies a cooling of relations or simply an unfortunate missed connection in a crowded room. The fact that it happened in the full view of the state governor and other dignitaries has only amplified its significance.
The event has undoubtedly shifted focus from the primary purpose of the inter-faith gathering, highlighting the intense public interest and respect accorded to traditional institutions in Nigeria. The royal courts of both monarchs have yet to issue any official statement regarding the viral handshake that wasn't.
