Oyebamiji’s Cultural Faux Pas: Handshake To A Traditional Ruler — A Pattern of Royal Disrespect Exposed
- By Ajala Busuyi
The recent incident involving Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, the APC governorship candidate in Osun State, at a public event has sparked widespread outrage and debate, particularly among those who value Yoruba cultural norms and respect for traditional institutions.
In a video that has circulated widely online, Oyebamiji is seen extending his hand for a handshake with the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, a first-class traditional ruler, while standing upright. The monarch notably ignored the gesture, which many interpret as a rightful snub given the breach of protocol. Moments later, Oyebamiji knelt down in a full bow to greet Kafayat Oyetola, the wife of Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and his political godfather.
This stark contrast in behavior is not just awkward; it’s profoundly disrespectful and indicative of misplaced priorities. In Yoruba culture, traditional rulers like the Soun embody centuries-old authority, heritage, and communal leadership.
Greeting them typically involves prostration or deep bowing, especially from someone in a position of public service or aspiration like Oyebamiji. Offering a mere handshake, a Western-style gesture often reserved for equals or subordinates, comes across as arrogant and dismissive of the throne’s sanctity. Yet, he chose to show utmost deference to the minister’s wife, who, while deserving of respect, does not hold the same institutional weight as a paramount ruler. This suggests Oyebamiji’s actions are driven more by political loyalty and sycophancy toward his benefactors than by genuine adherence to cultural values. It’s a classic case of “Omoluabi” principles, the Yoruba ethos of good character, humility, and respect, being thrown out the window in favor of self-serving opportunism.
As critics on social media have rightly pointed out the hypocrisy and the awkward act. This not only undermines the dignity of the Soun but also erodes public trust in Oyebamiji as a potential leader who claims to represent Osun’s people and traditions.
Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated lapse in judgment. Oyebamiji has a documented pattern of disregarding traditional rulers and elders. More recently, during a visit to Akinlalu, he reportedly sat down to address the local king and community, another clear breach of protocol that flouts Omoluabi values and shows repeated disdain for monarchy and cultural norms.
These recurring incidents paint a picture of a politician who prioritizes political alliances over the foundational respect owed to Yoruba institutions. If Oyebamiji aspires to govern Osun, he must reflect on this behavior, it’s not just bad optics; it’s a betrayal of the cultural fabric that binds the state together.
Osun deserves leaders who honor its kings, not those who diminish them for personal gain.
The opinions expressed in this publication are solely those of the author. It does not represent the editorial position or opinion of OSUN DEFENDER.
