Olubadan Breaks Silence, Speaks On Viral Alaafin Snub Controversy

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has broken his silence on the controversy surrounding an alleged snub of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I, describing the incident as neither deliberate nor disrespectful.

The controversy followed the circulation of short video clips on social media showing a moment during a recent public function, which many online users interpreted as the Olubadan ignoring the Alaafin.

The development sparked widespread debate, with some commentators suggesting tension between the two revered traditional rulers.

Speaking with newsmen in Ibadan, Oba Ladoja dismissed the allegations, saying the incident had been misrepresented and taken out of context.

According to him, his actions at the event were guided strictly by protocol and timing, not by any intention to slight a fellow monarch.

“There was no intention whatsoever. What happened was not deliberate. It has been misinterpreted, especially on social media,” the Olubadan said.

He explained that he arrived slightly late at the event and tried to take his seat quietly to avoid disrupting ongoing proceedings. Drawing an analogy with religious gatherings, the monarch noted that latecomers are expected to move discreetly and join appropriately.

“When I go late to a place, I try to be careful. At the mosque, when prayers are ongoing, you wait until the line is formed and then join properly. I was simply trying to take my seat before anyone would say I could not move again,” he explained.

Oba Ladoja further stated that his designated seat was located between different sections of the hall, requiring him to pass through several areas. However, by the time he returned to his seat, some dignitaries had already changed positions, forcing him to retrace his steps.

“My seat was sandwiched between the Soun and the 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.

The Olubadan also expressed concern over what he described as deliberate mischief by some commentators, noting that the viral clips did not show the full sequence of events.

“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 said.

Dismissing suggestions that the incident caused offence or tension, the monarch said necessary communication had been made and that no slight was intended.

“I don’t think anyone was being offensive, and I don’t see the issue as an insult to anybody,” he added.

Beyond the controversy, Oba Ladoja used the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to unity, peace and development, particularly among younger generations. He stressed the need to raise standards, especially in education, and to focus on issues that promote societal progress.