A prominent lawyer has weighed in on a viral video showing the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, snubbing the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, during a public event, sparking heated debates across social media and traditional circles in Nigeria.
The video quickly went viral, drawing attention to the interaction between two of the South-West’s most influential Yoruba monarchs. The clip has since become a focal point for nationwide discussions on respect, hierarchy, protocol, and the evolving power dynamics among Yoruba kings in modern Nigeria.
Olubadan Refuses Alaafin’s Handshake
The incident reportedly occurred when the two traditional rulers crossed paths at a high-profile event attended by prominent figures and government officials. In the video, the Olubadan is seen declining to shake hands with the Alaafin, an act that quickly drew widespread attention and commentary online.
Social media users reacted with divided opinions. Some argued that the Olubadan’s action was a breach of protocol and disrespectful to the Alaafin, citing traditional hierarchy and ceremonial etiquette. Others, however, suggested that the gesture reflected changing times and questioned whether age and historical precedence still dictate respect in contemporary society.
Lawyer Weighs In On Incident
Lawyer Bolanle Cole took to X (formerly Twitter) to provide his perspective on the viral incident. In his post, he emphasized the evolving nature of respect and traditional authority in the 21st century, writing:
“I think someone should tell the Alaafin of Oyo that respect begets respect. It cannot be compelled. Genuine respect is earned, not enforced. You only attract respect by showing respect. In that light, Oba Owoade can hardly complain about the snub from the Olubadan, Oba Ladoja. Someone should also remind the Alaafin that he is no longer living in the past. This is the 21st century. Traditional power dynamics have changed. Today, even an ordinary local government chairman can depose a monarch. Times have changed. And they are still changing.”
In his commentary, Cole also highlighted that respect in modern society is reciprocal and must be grounded in contemporary understanding of authority, rather than relying solely on historical precedence or ceremonial status. His remarks have added a legal and social dimension to the ongoing conversation around the incident.
The viral moment occurs against the backdrop of other high-profile interactions involving the Alaafin of Oyo, including his recent publicized clash with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye, over issues related to traditional authority and influence. Analysts suggest that such disputes reflect broader debates about the relevance, power, and role of traditional rulers in modern Nigerian governance and society.
The video has also sparked reactions from cultural commentators, social media users, and the general public, many of whom have shared opinions about whether the Olubadan’s action was justified, provocative, or merely a reflection of changing social norms. The discussion continues to trend on X and other platforms, illustrating the high level of interest in Yoruba traditional leadership dynamics in the 21st century.
Observers note that incidents like this often reignite debates on protocol, respect, and hierarchy among monarchs, highlighting the challenges traditional rulers face in adapting to modern societal expectations while maintaining the dignity and relevance of their offices.