The newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, has stirred conversations online following his decision to remain seated while exchanging greetings with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, at a recent public function in Ibadan.
The traditional rulers both attended the inauguration of a newly built Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub in the Oyo State capital, an event organized by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
As the Ooni of Ife arrived at the venue, he moved around to acknowledge other dignitaries, who were seen rising to greet him out of respect.
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However, when he approached the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade remained seated and simply extended his hand in greeting.
The gesture has since sparked mixed reactions, with many debating the cultural and hierarchical implications of the Alaafin’s action in Yoruba traditional settings.
See some reactions below…
@iamteffie said, “You don’t shake hands with your fellow man while sitting, it is a known bro code!
@olaideazeez said, “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.”
@Iam_Czar said, “The new Alaafin is bring respect back to the throne!!!!”
@FolaCoker2 said, “It’s obvious everywhere that Ooni 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 his a cool man to work with. Alaafin pls be a pacifist. Respect ought to be reciprocated.”
@Woleedan13 said, “Make we leave greeting alone oonii senior alafin.
Just look for the sitting arrangements…. Even alafin was shaking confused but Wetin people don tell m make him do like that. He should sit shake thrn stand to embrace him as adult to adult.”
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