Nigerians React as New Alaafin of Oyo Remains Seated While Greeting Ooni of Ife

A viral video of the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, staying seated while greeting the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, at a public event has stirred debate online.

Many Nigerians on social media interpreted the gesture as a sign of disrespect, fueling speculation about a power struggle or breach of royal protocol between the two revered Yoruba monarchs.

Supremacy tussle? Watch the moment Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, refused to stand up to greet Ooni of Ife, HIM Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, at an event organised by Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in Ibadan yesterday. pic.twitter.com/jpgVQZeSbO

— Oyo Affairs (@Oyoaffairs) April 30, 2025

In response, the Alaafin’s media team urged the public to ignore the video, clarifying that there is no rivalry between the two kings. They emphasized the Ooni’s revered status as a spiritual leader among the Yoruba.

Also weighing in, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, confirmed that there is no conflict between the monarchs and called for continued unity among traditional rulers.

The incident has sparked wider discussion about royal traditions and the cultural significance of greetings in Yoruba land.