The rift between the two foremost traditional rulers in Oyo State, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, appears to have deepened following a public incident in Ibadan.
Signs of the strained relationship emerged on Monday during the 2026 inter-faith service organised for civil servants at the state secretariat, where the Olubadan reportedly ignored the Alaafin’s attempt to greet and welcome him.
Witnesses said the Olubadan arrived shortly after Governor Seyi Makinde and first exchanged pleasantries with the governor. He then proceeded to greet other monarchs present at the event, who all stood up to acknowledge him.
However, tension reportedly rose when the Olubadan ignored the outstretched hand of the Alaafin, who was seated, and continued greeting others before calmly taking his seat, leaving the Alaafin visibly unsettled.
The dramatic snub sparked murmurs among the audience and has since generated widespread reactions across the state and beyond.
Throughout the event, observers noted a palpable tension, particularly around the seating area reserved for traditional rulers.
Opinions have remained divided over the incident. While some observers described it as improper for the Alaafin to remain seated while extending a hand to greet an ‘elderly’ Olubadan, others argued that the Alaafin’s stool is traditionally superior and must be respected regardless of the age of its occupant.
Sources suggested that the tension stems from a lingering supremacy tussle between the two royal institutions.
The public display of the disagreement was first noticed on December 15, 2025, during the unveiling of the Oyo@50 logo at the same venue. On that occasion, the Alaafin was represented by one of his chiefs.
Reports said that upon the arrival of the Olubadan, a brief argument ensued when he was ushered to a seat beside the Alaafin’s representative. The Olubadan reportedly expressed displeasure, insisting that he would not sit beside a representative of the Alaafin on a seat placed before his, despite the Alaafin not being physically present.
The disagreement created noticeable tension, prompting intervention from top government officials and political figures who attempted to calm the situation.
Eventually, the Olubadan’s seat was changed as requested, and he was relocated to a position ahead of the Alaafin’s seat.
The development has raised questions about the effectiveness of earlier efforts by the state government to foster peace between the two monarchs.
It was reported that Governor Makinde held a brief closed-door meeting with the Alaafin and the Olubadan on December 22, 2025, shortly after signing the 2026 Appropriation Bill at the Executive Council Chamber, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.
The unscheduled meeting reportedly took place at the Coffee Room opposite the photo gallery stage of the chamber, although details of the discussion were not disclosed.
Observers noted that after the budget signing ceremony, the governor invited both monarchs into the Coffee Room while other dignitaries waited at the photo gallery for group photographs.
The meeting reportedly lasted about 15 minutes, with traditional rulers, political office holders, lawmakers, members of the judiciary, and other stakeholders in attendance at the event.
Many observers believe the meeting was aimed at promoting unity and harmony between the two first-class monarchs.
Before the meeting, social media had been awash with reports of acrimony and class tussle between the Alaafin and the Olubadan over perceived claims of superiority.
Monday’s incident has since reignited public debate, with critics questioning the Alaafin’s judgment and propriety in light of long-standing Yoruba customs, hierarchy, and sensitivities surrounding traditional rulership.
Observers said the episode has reopened old wounds and renewed concerns about divisions among traditional rulers in Oyo State, raising fears over the unity and stability of the revered traditional institution.
