Alaafin Must Respect Olubadan Stool or Face Consequences – Ibadan Traditional Leaders
Ibadan traditional stakeholders, including monarchs, Mogajis, Baales, and prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland, have again warned the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, against any act of disrespect towards the Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional institution.
The warning follows reports that Oba Owoade stretched out his hand while seated to greet the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, during a function at Agodi Government House, Ibadan.
Stakeholders described the gesture as a grave insult to the Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional institution.
They stated that the uncultured act, reportedly overlooked by the Olubadan, should be considered a clear warning.
Any future disrespect from the Alaafin, they stressed, would prompt a strong and decisive response from Ibadan traditional leaders, including Kabiyesis, chiefs, Mogajis, and Baales.
In a statement jointly signed by the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and the Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Mogaji Dr Nurudeen Akinade, Oba Owoade’s conduct was described as “an embarrassment of the highest order.”
The statement added that Ibadan traditional stakeholders are fully prepared to confront any action capable of tarnishing the reputation of the Ibadan institution.
It further highlighted that Oba Adewolu Ladoja surpasses Oba Owoade in age, achievements, social standing, political exposure, business success, leadership pedigree, and his role as custodian of Ibadan traditions.
The statement read in part, “The continuous disrespect of the Alaafin towards the stool of Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional institution is becoming intolerable. If Governor Seyi Makinde fails to caution him and Ibadan people are forced to react, the Alaafin will regret his actions.
“We have documented repeated uncultured behaviour towards Ibadan traditional stools. This must stop. Ibadanland will not tolerate further provocation.
“Ibadan people are fearless, but we have exercised restraint in the interest of peace. Our culture and tradition are sacred, and anything that ridicules them will be firmly resisted.
“The Alaafin cannot enter our territory, sit down, and stretch his hand to greet our highly revered 82-year-old Olubadan. Oba Ladoja is a former Senator, former Governor, an international figure, and a successful businessman.
“The Alaafin may choose not to greet the Olubadan, but stretching his hand while seated is an insult to the entire Ibadan traditional institution.
“Ibadanland has never been subordinate to the Alaafin — Ibadan people will not accept any form of humiliation.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
