The Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Arusa 1, has clarified that he didn’t intentionally snub the greeting from the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, during a recent public function in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The Olubadan, who addressed journalists in Ibadan over the matter, said the issue has been blown out of proportion, particularly on social media.
The monarch insisted that ignoring Oba Owoade’s outstretched hand at the event was not intentional or out of disrespect.
According to him, he arrived late at the event and was in a hurry to get to his seat in order not to distract people from the ongoing programme.
“There was no intention whatsoever. What happened was not deliberate. It has been misinterpreted, especially on social media.
“When I go late to a place, I try to bring good news. At the mosque, when prayers are ongoing, you wait until they form a line and then you join appropriately. I was simply trying to take my seat before anyone would say I could not move again,” the monarch explained.
The Olubadan stated that he had no intention to avoid or ignore anyone, explaining that his seat was located between designated zones, which required him to pass through some sections of the hall. By the time he returned, he discovered that other dignitaries had already moved, prompting him to retrace his steps.
“My seat was sandwiched between Soun and Alaafin. I had to pass through some people to get there. I didn’t make any decision to avoid or ignore anyone. Why should I?” he asked.
Oba Ladoja added that some people are deliberately mischievous on social media, as the viral video did not capture what transpired fully at the event.
“If you watch the full video, you will see me greeting people, including the governor. But social media has a way of taking things out of context,” he added.
The Olubadan added that communication had been made between the two palaces over the event, dismissing claims of tension or offence.
“I don’t think anyone was being offensive, and I don’t see the issue as an insult to anybody,” he said.
He also used the opportunity to call for peace and unity in Yorubaland, particularly among younger generations.
“My goal is to unite the present generation and those coming after us. We must raise standards, especially in education, and focus on what truly brings progress to our society,” the traditional ruler submitted.
Recall that a video circulating on social media captured the moment the Olubadan of Ibadanland ignored the handshake of the Alaafin of Oyo.
Naijaonpoint reports that the incident occurred at the 2026 interfaith gathering, held at the Grand Space, near the Oyo State House of Assembly.