By Adejola Adeyemi Crown
Ibadan – Tension gripped Ibadan on Monday after Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, reportedly snubbed a handshake from Abimbola Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, during a public event at the Grand Space near the Oyo State House of Assembly.
The incident, captured on video, has reignited long-standing disputes over status and supremacy between the two prominent Yoruba traditional stools.
Eyewitnesses said that as the Olubadan approached his seat beside the Alaafin at the 2026 interfaith gathering, Owoade extended his hand in greeting.
Ladoja, however, remained silent, prompting the Alaafin to withdraw his hand, leaving attendees shocked.
Ibadan traditional leaders, including monarchs, mogajis, baales, and prominent indigenes, condemned the gesture, describing it as disrespectful to the Olubadan stool.
In a statement, they said: “The Alaafin’s disrespect to the Olubadan stool and traditional institution is getting out of hand. Ibadanland is not subordinate to the Alaafin, and such actions are unacceptable.”
The leaders urged Governor Seyi Makinde, who was present at the event, to caution the Alaafin, warning that continued provocations could lead to unrest.
“Ibadan people cherish their culture and traditions and hold them in high esteem. Anything capable of ridiculing these traditions will be rejected,” the statement added.
Governor Makinde, while maintaining his usual composure, emphasized unity and diversity in a post on his X handle, thanking residents for their contributions to the state’s development.
