Rivalry Between Olubadan And Alaafin Turns 360 Degree
OpenLife Nigeria reports that the public knowledge rivalry between the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Ladoja and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has turned 360 degree.
The latestes which has genereataed tension in the air happened at the Oyo Annual Inter-Faith Service where Oba Ladoja refused a handshake with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.
In a video that has been trending, the Olubadan reportedly refused the Alaafin’s handshake after greeting the Soun of Ogbomoso.
However, the exact context and nature of the incident, according to insiders, are not unconnected with supremacy battle.
The video
Historical Context:
There is a history of rivalry and tension between the two traditional stools, with past issues including disagreements over the chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs and the former Alaafin’s alleged role in Ladoja’s past impeachment as governor.
Recent Escalation
In late 2025, a coalition of Ibadan stakeholders (Mogajis, CCII, etc.) warned the Alaafin against allegedly disrespecting Oba Ladoja, urging respected leaders to intervene and counsel the Alaafin on maintaining mutual respect.
Public Appearances
Despite these tensions, the current Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, was present at Oba Ladoja’s coronation ceremony as the 44th Olubadan in September 2025, suggesting that official diplomatic relations are maintained.
Ladoja’s Stance
In earlier statements, the then Olubadan-designate Ladoja blamed supporters of both the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin for fanning the embers of discord and rejected the idea that the monarchs themselves were promoting disunity.
He has also publicly backed a rotational chairmanship for the state’s council of Obas.
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