- The Alaafin of Oyo, addressed a viral video controversy.
- The video confirmed him seated whereas the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, greeted different conventional rulers.
- The occasion befell in Ibadan and was organized by Nigeria’s First Girl, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, has addressed the widespread on-line debate triggered by a viral video that confirmed him remaining seated whereas the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, greeted fellow conventional rulers throughout a public occasion in Ibadan.
The footage, taken at an occasion organized by Nigeria’s First Girl, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, rapidly gained traction on social media, drawing criticism from customers who interpreted the Alaafin’s seated posture as an indication of disrespect.
Responding to the backlash, the Alaafin dismissed the controversy as a deliberate effort by some bloggers and social media customers to stir division amongst Yoruba kings.
In an announcement launched by his Private Assistant, Kolade Oladele, Oba Owoade described the incident as a useless distraction from extra pressing points confronting the Yoruba individuals, reminiscent of rising insecurity, {economic} challenges, and the necessity to empower the youth.
He emphasised his continued respect for the Ooni of Ife and reaffirmed his dedication to strengthening cooperation amongst conventional leaders to advertise growth throughout Yorubaland.
The Alaafin additionally referred to as on the general public to look past surface-level actions and ignore on-line narratives that threaten the integrity and unity of conventional establishments.
The assertion reads:
“It has come to our consideration that sure bloggers and on-line commentators are producing useless controversies surrounding the interplay between our revered monarchs in Yorubaland- specifically, the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife- at a current public perform. This newest instalment in a collection of manufactured debates is an unhelpful train that distracts and detracts from the really necessary points to which little kids of Yorubaland ought to commit their power and focus.
”At a time when our individuals face profound socio-economic and safety challenges, it’s incumbent on all of us- leaders, youths, conventional establishments, and residents alike- to rise above pettiness and prioritise the work of uplifting our communities. The welfare of our individuals, the safety of lives and property, the empowerment of our youth inhabitants, and the revitalisation of conventional values for development- these are the issues that actually deserve consideration.
“His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Alaafin of Oyo, stays unwavering in his dedication to those priorities. He believes in a way forward for collaborative progress and views synergy between conventional establishments as an important pillar for stability and development in Yorubaland. The Alaafin holds the Ooni of Ife- and all custodians of Yoruba heritage- in excessive regard and is deeply dedicated to working hand-in-hand with them to chart a brand new path of unity, justice, and sustainable growth throughout our land.
“Our forebears understood the burden of royal duty and the sacred responsibility to guard, unite, and lead with dignity. His Imperial Majesty embraces this legacy with humility and honour. He won’t be drawn into performative gestures or public spectacles that scale back the gravitas of Yoruba monarchy to fodder for digital sensationalism.
“We name on the general public to reject makes an attempt to sow seeds of discord and as a substitute be a part of us in reimagining a Yorubaland the place our traditions function catalysts for progress, and the place our revered thrones stand not in competitors, however in purposeful cooperation.”