Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, has responded to the controversy surrounding a viral video that captured him seated while greeting the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, during a recent public event in Ibadan hosted by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The footage, which has sparked widespread reactions online, shows other monarchs rising to greet the Ooni upon his arrival, while the Alaafin remained seated—a moment that some have interpreted as a sign of disrespect.
In a statement released by his Personal Assistant, Kolade Oladele, Alaafin Owoade dismissed these claims as unfounded and accused bloggers and online commentators of deliberately stirring division among Yoruba traditional rulers.
He described the uproar as a distraction from the region’s real challenges, such as insecurity, economic difficulties, and youth development. The monarch emphasized his deep respect for the Ooni of Ife and all custodians of Yoruba heritage, reiterating his commitment to fostering unity and collaboration among royal institutions.
“It is unfortunate that a routine royal interaction has been misrepresented for sensational purposes,” the statement read. “This manufactured controversy detracts from the pressing issues that should command our collective attention.”
The Alaafin urged the public to reject divisive narratives and support the revitalization of traditional institutions as agents of peace and progress. He also warned against turning royal engagements into online spectacles, stating that such actions undermine the dignity of the monarchy.
“Our revered thrones must work in purposeful cooperation, not rivalry,” the statement continued. “The Alaafin remains devoted to upholding the legacy of leadership, unity, and service that defines the Yoruba monarchy.”
