Alaafin Handshake Incident Misunderstood, Says Olubadan

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has debunked claims that he deliberately ignored or snubbed the Alaafin of Oyo at a recent public event, describing the widely circulated narrative as a misinterpretation fuelled by selective social media footage.

Speaking in Ibadan, the foremost traditional ruler said the incident, which has generated intense online debate, was neither intentional nor borne out of disrespect, insisting that protocol and timing were responsible for his actions at the venue.

Oba Ladoja explained that he arrived late at the function and was cautious about taking his seat without causing disruption, adding that his movement within the hall was dictated by the seating arrangement and unfolding circumstances.

“There was no intention whatsoever,” the monarch said. “What happened was not deliberate. It has simply been blown out of proportion, particularly on social media.”

Drawing an analogy, the Olubadan noted that arriving late to an event often requires restraint and sensitivity to ongoing proceedings, stressing that his priority was to settle quietly before protocol restrictions took effect.

He explained that his designated seat was positioned between other prominent traditional rulers, including the Soun of Ogbomosoland and the Alaafin of Oyo, necessitating movement through certain sections of the hall.

“My seat was sandwiched between the Soun and the Alaafin. I had to pass through people to get there. By the time I returned, some dignitaries had already moved. There was no decision to avoid or ignore anyone,” he said.

The Ibadan monarch expressed concern over what he described as deliberate mischief by commentators who circulated short video clips that failed to capture the full sequence of events.

“If you watch the complete video, you will see that I greeted people, including the governor. Unfortunately, social media thrives on fragments taken out of context,” he added.

On suggestions that the incident had strained relations among royal institutions, Oba Ladoja dismissed such claims, noting that communication had already been made and that no offence was intended or taken.

“I do not see it as an insult to anybody. I don’t believe anyone was being offensive,” he said.

Beyond the immediate controversy, the Olubadan reaffirmed his commitment to unity, social harmony and long-term development, particularly among the younger generation.

“My focus is to unite both the present generation and those coming after us. We must raise standards, especially in education, and concentrate on issues that genuinely drive progress,” he said.

His clarification comes amid growing public discourse on royal protocol and perceived rivalry among traditional rulers in Oyo State, a debate many observers say risks overshadowing the stabilising and unifying role of traditional institutions in society.