An encounter between two of Yorubaland’s most prominent monarchs, the newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has stirred widespread debate after a video captured a moment of apparent tension during an event in Ibadan, Oyo State
The occasion was the inauguration of an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub built through the Renewed Hope Initiative and named in honor of former Minister of Industry, Chief Onikepo Akande. The project was spearheaded by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.
Tensions arose when the Ooni of Ife arrived and began greeting dignitaries at the venue. While other guests stood to greet the revered monarch, Oba Owoade remained seated, extending only his hand in acknowledgment — a gesture that quickly ignited speculation about a possible rift between the two traditional rulers.
The video circulated widely online, drawing mixed reactions. Many viewed the Alaafin’s decision to remain seated as a reflection of a historic rivalry between the Alaafin and the Ooni, a debate that has persisted in Yoruba history and culture.
A social media user wrote, “You don’t shake hands with a fellow man while sitting — that’s disrespectful. Even bros know the code!”
Others defended the Alaafin’s posture, citing history and tradition. “The Alaafin has always been a powerful stool, even older and more authoritative than the Ooni in some historical accounts. He’s simply following age-old tradition,” one user argued.
Some saw the move as a return to cultural pride. “The new Alaafin is bringing dignity back to the throne,” another person commented.
However, not everyone agreed. One observer urged calm: “Let love lead. Ooni is a man of peace. Alaafin should not fall into this drama — we need unity among our monarchs.”
Another wrote, “Forget who greeted who. The seating arrangement says a lot. Alaafin looked hesitant — it seems people around him told him to act a certain way.”
Some commenters suggested the issue stemmed from deeper protocol concerns. “Regardless of who’s superior, the Alaafin’s gesture was poised and respectful. If the Ooni arrived late again, maybe it was a silent protest.”
In the midst of the online buzz, Oba Owoade has denied any tension with the Ooni, stating clearly that he harbors no interest in a power struggle.
“I want to be friends with all Yoruba monarchs. I’m not involved in any supremacy contest with the Ooni of Ife. Those stories are fake — cooked up by bloggers,” he said during a series of courtesy visits by cultural organizations, including Ọmọ Yorùbá Àtàtà and the Baptist High School Ṣaki Old Students’ Association.
The Alaafin emphasized that his reign will focus on unity, cultural preservation, and mutual respect among Yoruba traditional institutions.
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