The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has responded to widespread criticism following a viral video that showed him seated while the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, exchanged greetings with fellow monarchs during a recent public event in Ibadan.
The footage, recorded at an event hosted by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, sparked a flurry of online reactions, with many interpreting the Alaafin’s seated posture as a slight to the Ooni.
Breaking his silence on Wednesday, Oba Owoade dismissed the backlash as a “calculated distraction,” orchestrated by bloggers and online commentators seeking to sow division among Yoruba traditional rulers.
In a statement released through his Personal Assistant, Kolade Oladele, the monarch reaffirmed his “high regard” for the Ooni and called on the public to focus on more pressing issues affecting the Yoruba people—such as insecurity, youth unemployment, and economic hardship.
“The Alaafin holds the Ooni of Ife—and all custodians of Yoruba heritage—in high regard,” the statement read. “He remains committed to working hand-in-hand with other royal fathers to foster unity, justice, and development across Yorubaland.”
Oba Owoade also stressed the need for traditional institutions to maintain their dignity and not be drawn into “performative gestures or public spectacles” that detract from their responsibilities to the people.
“This manufactured controversy distracts from the real challenges we must confront as a people. Our royal heritage must remain a symbol of unity and progress—not fodder for digital sensationalism,” he added.
The monarch urged citizens to reject attempts to create discord and instead support efforts to revitalise traditional values and build a more united and prosperous Yorubaland.
