Mogaji Ola Muhammed
The recent public exchange between the Olúbàdàn of Ibadanland, HRM Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja and the Aláàfin of Oyo, HIM Aláàfin Akeem Owoade has sparked intense debate, not merely because of a perceived snub, but because it exposes deeper issues of historical memory, protocol and personal conduct within traditional leadership in Yorùbáland.
First, it must be clearly stated that Yorùbá history is not frozen in time. The old Oyo Empire collapsed centuries ago, and with it the imperial hegemony that once defined inter-kingdom relations. What exists today is a modern Nigeria governed by constitutional order, mutual respect and clearly defined traditional structures. Any attempt to resurrect imperial superiority in posture or attitude is out of step with contemporary civilisation.
It is therefore necessary to remind the Aláàfin that Ibadan’s place in Yorùbá history is neither accidental nor subordinate. Historically, it was Ibadan that stood as the bulwark of defence for Yorùbáland during periods of grave external threats, including the Fulani incursions. Ibadan has never been conquered, and its warrior ethos and political relevance remain deeply rooted. The Olúbàdàn stool itself is not a product of political bargaining or favouritism; it is a rigidly structured traditional institution governed by a clear succession ladder. Every aspirant knows his place and his time.
This cannot be said, without controversy, of the Alaafin stool today. The current ascension of Aláàfin Akeem Owoade remains a subject of litigation. In such circumstances, humility and caution should guide public conduct. Thrones gain reverence not only from history, but from the dignity, restraint and wisdom of those who occupy them.
The handshake incident must also be viewed beyond that single moment. An earlier event had already set the tone. At a state function where all traditional rulers were invited, the Aláàfin, chairman of the State Council of Traditional Rulers, was conspicuously absent. Protocol demanded that the Olúbàdàn, as vice chairman, occupy the chairman’s seat. However, a representative of the Aláàfin reportedly insisted on sitting there, claiming instructions. This nearly degenerated into chaos until Governor Seyi Makinde intervened and placated the Olúbàdàn, attributing the incident to a protocol lapse. Many at the time gave the Aláàfin the benefit of the doubt, assuming the representative acted out of personal overreach.
Recent events, however, have cast those assumptions in doubt.
In Yorùbá culture, respect is twofold: for position and for age. Age is sacred. It is not negotiable, nor is it purchasable. During the handshake episode, the Soun of Ogbomoso rose to greet the Olubadan, despite being older than the Aláàfin. No one compelled the Aláàfin to greet the Olúbàdàn, yet choosing to extend a handshake while seated to an elder, an elder who is not only older in years but also distinguished in public service as a former senator and governor, was widely seen as dismissive and demeaning.
The Olúbàdàn’s first child is older than the Aláàfin. These are not trivial facts in Yorùbá worldview. They speak directly to the ethics of respect and decorum. What was displayed was not confidence, but arrogance; not authority, but disregard.
Traditional rulers are custodians of values, not performers of ego. The throne should elevate character, not expose temperament. The calm, dignified example of the late Aláàfin Adeyemi III remains instructive. His relationship with successive Olúbàdàns was cordial, respectful and free of unnecessary historical misinterpretations.
If the Aláàfin’s advisers truly cherish the legacy of the throne, now is the time to act. He must be counselled to de-escalate, reflect and realign his conduct with the values of humility, respect and unity. Yorùbáland does not need symbolic dominance; it needs cooperative leadership anchored in history, wisdom and mutual respect.
The handshake brouhaha is therefore not about who greeted whom. It is about memory, maturity and the moral responsibility that comes with power.
