The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has finally reacted to the viral “handshake snub” involving the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, insisting that the incident was neither deliberate nor disrespectful.
Oba Ladoja dismissed social media claims that he intentionally ignored the Alaafin during a recent public function in Ibadan, describing the controversy as a needless misinterpretation blown out of proportion online.
Speaking with journalists on Wednesday, the monarch explained that protocol and timing, not bad blood dictated his actions at the event.
“There was no intention whatsoever. What happened was not deliberate. Social media has simply twisted the situation,” the Olubadan said.
According to him, he arrived slightly late and was focused on taking his seat quietly without disrupting proceedings.
“When you arrive late at a mosque, you don’t walk around greeting people while prayers are ongoing. You wait and join properly. That was exactly what I was trying to do,” he explained.
The Olubadan noted that his seat was positioned between the Soun of Ogbomosoland and the Alaafin of Oyo, making movement difficult.
“My seat was sandwiched between the Soun and the Alaafin. I had to pass through people. I didn’t decide to avoid or ignore anyone. Why would I?” he asked.
He added that a full video of the event clearly shows him exchanging greetings with other dignitaries, including the state governor.
“If you watch the complete video, you’ll see me greeting people. But social media only picked what suited a certain narrative,” he said.
On whether he had reached out privately to smooth things over, Oba Ladoja said he did not consider the incident insulting to anyone.
“I don’t think anyone was offended, and I don’t see it as an insult to anybody,” he stated.
Reaffirming his commitment to peace and development, the Olubadan stressed the need for unity among traditional institutions.
“My focus is unity — for this generation and the next. We must raise standards, especially in education, and concentrate on what truly drives progress,” he said.
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