Video: Olubadan snubs Alaafin at Oyo Inter-Faith Gathering

There was mild drama on Monday at the 2026 Inter-Faith Gathering held at the Secretariat’s Grand Space, Ibadan, as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, appeared to snub the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.

The inter-faith event, which was organised to promote peaceful coexistence, unity and mutual understanding in Oyo State, attracted traditional rulers, religious leaders, senior government officials and community representatives.

In the videos making rounds online, the Alaafin extended his hand in greeting to the Olubadan on arrival, but the gesture was not reciprocated. The Olubadan was said to have proceeded to greet Governor Seyi Makinde and other dignitaries before taking his seat.

The moment, witnessed by several attendees, later became a subject of discussion within and outside the venue, with varying opinions expressed on issues of traditional protocol, hierarchy and expected conduct among royal fathers at official functions.

While some observers described the incident as unfortunate, others cautioned against drawing conclusions without a proper understanding of long-established customs, noting that traditional institutions operate within defined protocols.

Watch the video HERE.