The Mogaji of Oloko Family, Chief Abass Oloko, has cautioned the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, to exercise restraint and show due respect to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, following a widely discussed incident at the 2026 Inter-Faith Gathering held on Monday at the Secretariat’s Grand Space.
Oloko’s warning came amid public debate triggered by a moment at the event where the Alaafin’s greeting to the Olubadan was reportedly not reciprocated.
The Olubadan was later seen greeting Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and other dignitaries before taking his seat, a development that immediately drew attention among attendees and observers of traditional affairs.
Reacting to the incident, Chief Oloko urged the Alaafin to consider the age, experience, and political pedigree of the Olubadan, describing Oba Ladoja as not only a foremost traditional ruler but also a respected elder statesman.
“Kabiyesi Alaafin must remember that the Olubadan of Ibadanland is far older in age and experience. Beyond being a royal father, Oba Rashidi Ladoja is a former governor of Oyo State who has served the people at the highest political level,” Oloko said.
He stressed that traditional institutions thrive on mutual respect and understanding, warning that public displays perceived as rivalry could erode the dignity of Yoruba monarchies.
“This is not a matter of supremacy or competition. The Yoruba traditional system is built on respect for elders, history and established hierarchy.”
“The Olubadan stool is unique, just as the Alaafin’s stool is revered. One should not be used to diminish the other,” Oloko added.
The Mogaji further advised that public functions, especially inter-faith and government-organised events, should not become arenas for protocol disputes, noting that such moments are closely watched by the public and younger generations.
“What the people want to see is unity among our royal fathers. When kings appear divided, it sends the wrong signal to society and weakens the moral authority of traditional institutions,” he said.
Oloko also appealed to palace aides and protocol officers around traditional rulers to handle sensitive interactions with wisdom, to avoid actions that could be misinterpreted or escalate into unnecessary controversy.