Traditional leaders in Ibadan have issued a stern warning to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, over what they describe as a serious act of disrespect toward the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The warning followed a tense encounter at the Agodi Government House, where the Alaafin reportedly extended his hand while seated to greet the Olubadan—a gesture the Ibadan leaders called “deeply insulting to the revered stool and the entire Ibadan traditional institution.”

After a meeting of Ibadan traditional authorities, including monarchs, Mogajis, Baales, and prominent indigenes, stakeholders accused the Alaafin of consistently disregarding Ibadan customs and hierarchy.

In a statement signed by Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, President of Ibadan Mogajis, and Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade, Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), the leaders described the action as “an embarrassment of the highest order.”

They praised Oba Ladoja’s seniority, distinguished service, and stature, noting the 82-year-old monarch is a former senator, ex-governor, seasoned statesman, and successful businessman—qualities they argue surpass those of the Alaafin.

The statement warned that any further provocation would be met with stronger resistance from Ibadan’s traditional authorities, including Kabiyesis, chiefs, Mogajis, and Baales.

“Ibadan people cherish their culture and traditions and will resist anything capable of ridiculing them,” the leaders stressed. They emphasized that Ibadanland has never been subordinate to the Alaafin and any attempt to undermine the Olubadan stool’s dignity would be firmly rejected.

“Alaafin may choose not to greet the Olubadan, but stretching his hand while seated to greet our highly revered monarch is an insult to the entire Ibadan traditional institution. Ibadan mesi o go,” the statement concluded.