Nigerians on social media have criticized the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, for refusing to stand up to greet the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, during an event in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a video that surfaced on social media captured the moment the Ooni arrived at the commissioning of an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub built under the Renewed Hope Initiative and named after former Minister of Industry, Chief Onikepo Akande.
When the monarch greeted dignitaries at the venue, he reached Oba Owoade’s seat. However, the Alaafin remained seated and only extended his hand to the Ooni.
The singular action have sparked speculations about a cold war between both prominent Yoruba monarchs.
Some netizens noted that the Alaafin’s behavior indicated an ongoing struggle for supremacy between the two royal houses.
One user wrote, “Alaafin of oyo can do better than this sha.After all Ooni of ife is still father of all Yorubas.”
Another user noted “The Alaafin stool is not a small stool. Historically the Alaafin is mightier than the Ooni. The rivalry between the two kings has been in existence from ancient of days. The new king just followed suit based on history.”
Someone else commented, “The new Alaafin is bring respect back to the throne!!!!”
In contrast, another user called for peace, “It’s obvious everywhere that Ooni [is] well recognized and respected to be their leader. Alaafin pls we need love and peace in our land stop all this Drama don’t be pushed. Ooni Adeyeye [is] a cool man to work with. Alaafin pls be a pacifist. Respect ought to be reciprocated.”
One added, “Make we leave greeting alone oonii senior alaafin. Just look for the sitting arrangements…. Even alaafin was shaking confused but Wetin people don tell m make him do like that. He should sit shake then stand to embrace him as adult to adult.”
Another remarked, “Irrespective of the circumstance that had thrown him up as the king, he knows his place. If at this time and age Ooni still holds on to bad practice of habitual late comer to event, no need to harague him to drop it. Alaafin’s conduct reflected civility and firmness.”