Dare Babalola
A viral video has captured a tense moment between two prominent Yoruba monarchs, as Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, appeared to ignore a handshake gesture from Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, sparking intense speculation and debate.
The incident occurred on Monday in the full glare of Governor Seyi Makinde and other top government officials at the Agodi Secretariat during the 2026 inter-faith gathering in Ibadan.
The incident has left Nigerians buzzing after it captured an uncomfortable moment involving two of the Southwest’s powerful traditional rulers.
In the viral clip, the Alaafin, who has been in a battle of supremacy with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, was seen stretching out his hand to greet the Olubadan.
In the clip, the Olubadan had just exchanged pleasantries with Governor Seyi Makinde and other dignitaries at the event.
However, as he moved forward, he reportedly walked past the Alaafin’s extended hand and proceeded directly to his seat without acknowledging the gesture.
The video generated an avalanche of opinions on social media as users analysed it frame-by-frame. While some viewers insisted the Olubadan may not have seen the outstretched hand, others believed the Ibadan monarch ignored the Alaafin because he sat down while stretching the hands.
