New Video Of Alaafin Seating To Greet Ooni Reignites RIvalry Debate

The Alaafin of Oyo’s decision to remain seated while the Ooni of Ife greeted him at a public event has triggered online arguments about tradition and royal hierarchy.

A fresh wave of debate over royal hierarchy in Yoruba land has erupted following a dramatic moment between two of its most prominent monarchs—the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

The incident unfolded at a cultural event hosted in Ibadan by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. A video from the event shows the Ooni of Ife arriving, with most traditional rulers in attendance rising to greet him in respect. In contrast, the Alaafin of Oyo notably stayed seated, opting not to follow the custom. Despite this, the Ooni walked up to him, extended a handshake, and briefly exchanged words before proceeding to his seat.

This simple gesture—or lack of it—has stirred widespread reactions across social media, reigniting the long-standing historical and cultural rivalry between the two royal stools.

One user wrote, “Alaafin ruled most of Yoruba land for centuries… the Ife origin story was just created to diminish Oyo’s monarchy.” Another echoed the sentiment, saying, “Have you wondered why Alaafin was used in pre-colonial government? He was the political and military leader; Ooni is the spiritual head.”

Others felt differently. “Courtesy demands you stand up for anybody extending a hand to greet you, irrespective of crown or status. It’s disrespectful and un-Yoruba to behave otherwise,” someone criticized.

The debate has also spilled into historical interpretation. Some commenters argued that the Ooni’s seat represents the ancestral origin of the Yoruba people, while the Alaafin symbolizes political might and empire-building. “Technically, they’re both number one,” a user suggested, highlighting the complexity of Yoruba royal heritage.

Meanwhile, some viewed the incident as overblown. “Na their greetings go give us money?” joked one commenter, capturing a sentiment shared by many amused viewers. Another wrote, “Why should he stand up? A king does not stand for another king.”

In the midst of the firestorm, some voices called for balance. “They are both first-class Obas,” someone commented. “We should focus on unity, not superiority.”

Though no official statements have been made by either palace, the video has amplified long-standing conversations about tradition, respect, and status in Yoruba leadership. Whether symbolic or incidental, the Alaafin’s choice to remain seated has reignited a cultural dialogue that clearly still holds weight in contemporary Nigeria.

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