The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has responded to the controversy trailing a viral video that showed him remaining seated while greeting the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, at a recent public function in Ibadan.
The footage, which was recorded during an event hosted by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has stirred heated debate across social media platforms, with various interpretations fueling online speculation about the state of royal relations in Yorubaland.
In the video, the arrival of the Ooni prompted other monarchs present to rise in greeting, while Oba Owoade was seen sitting—a moment that sparked assumptions of disrespect or conflict.
But in a formal statement issued through his Personal Assistant, Kolade Oladele, the Alaafin described the uproar as “a needless distraction and an orchestrated attempt to incite division among Yoruba traditional rulers.”
“The incident has been deliberately misrepresented by certain bloggers and online commentators who thrive on sowing discord,” the statement read. “Their intention is not to inform the public, but to sensationalize royal interactions and detract from pressing issues affecting our region.”
Oba Owoade emphasized that he holds the Ooni of Ife—and all other Yoruba monarchs—in the highest esteem.
“There is no basis for misunderstanding. His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, maintains deep respect for the Ooni of Ife and remains fully committed to mutual cooperation among traditional institutions,” Oladele stated.
He further called on the public to disregard divisive narratives and focus instead on the shared responsibilities that lie before traditional leaders and their communities.
“At a time when our people are grappling with serious economic hardship, rising insecurity, and the urgent need for youth empowerment, it is disheartening that public attention is being diverted to such trivialities,” the statement continued.
Highlighting the sacred role of monarchy in Yoruba land, the Alaafin reiterated his stance on unity and progress. “We must rise above pettiness and channel our collective efforts into uplifting our communities. Our royal institutions should be seen as agents of development, not as actors in digitally staged drama.”
The Alaafin’s office also warned against reducing the solemnity of royal engagements to viral content meant for clout.
“Our forefathers understood the significance of royal leadership. His Imperial Majesty honors that legacy and will not allow it to be reduced to social media theatrics,” the statement added.
Oba Owoade called on all Yoruba sons and daughters to rally behind their traditional institutions, encouraging unity and respect rather than suspicion and sensationalism.
“Let us build a Yorubaland where our heritage inspires development, and where our revered thrones collaborate—not compete—for the greater good of our people,” he concluded.
