The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has debunked claims circulating on social media that he deliberately snubbed the Alaafin of Oyo at a recent public event, describing the incident as a misunderstanding exaggerated by online speculation.
Speaking in an interview with Daily Independent in Ibadan, the revered traditional ruler insisted that his actions at the event were neither intentional nor disrespectful, but were dictated by timing and protocol.
“There was no intention whatsoever,” Oba Ladoja said. “What happened was not deliberate. It has been misinterpreted, especially on social media.”
The monarch explained that he arrived slightly late at the event and was attempting to take his seat discreetly without disrupting proceedings.
According to him, his movement within the venue was influenced by the seating arrangement and the need to observe protocol.
“When I arrive late at a place, I try to move quietly,” he explained. “Just like in a mosque, when prayers are ongoing, you wait for the right moment to join. I was simply trying to take my seat before it became impossible to move around.”
Oba Ladoja clarified that his seat was positioned between designated areas, requiring him to pass through certain sections of the hall.
However, by the time he attempted to return to his seat, he found that other dignitaries had already changed positions, forcing him to retrace his steps.
“My seat was sandwiched between the Sohun and the Alaafin,” he said. “I had to pass through some people to get there. I did not make any decision to avoid or ignore anyone. Why should I?”
The Olubadan expressed concern over what he described as deliberate mischief by some commentators, noting that selectively edited video clips circulating online failed to capture the full sequence of events.
“If you watch the complete video, you will see me greeting people, including the governor,” he noted. “But social media often takes things out of context.”
On whether any effort had been made to address perceived grievances arising from the incident, the monarch confirmed that communication had already taken place, dismissing suggestions of tension or offence between the royal institutions.
“I don’t think anyone was being offensive, and I don’t see the issue as an insult to anybody,” he said.
Beyond the controversy, Oba Ladoja used the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to unity, social harmony and development, particularly among the younger generation.
“My goal is to unite the present generation and those coming after us,” he said. “We must raise standards, especially in education, and focus on what truly brings progress to our society.”
The clarification comes amid intense online debate over royal protocol and perceived rivalries among traditional institutions in Oyo State, a discourse many observers say detracts from the stabilising role of traditional rulers in promoting governance, unity and social cohesion.
Independent
