The Office of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has responded to the ongoing social media controversy stirred by online commentators and bloggers over the monarch's recent public encounter with the Ooni of Ife.
In a press statement signed by Rev’d Dr Kolade Oladele, Personal Assistant to the Alaafin, and shared earlier by Event Diary Lifestyle, the palace strongly condemned what it described as “needless controversies” and “manufactured debates” surrounding the monarchs’ interaction at a recent public function.
According to the statement, the focus on gestures between the revered traditional rulers detracts from more pressing issues facing Yorubaland and Nigeria at large. “This latest instalment in a series of manufactured debates is an unhelpful exercise that distracts and detracts from the truly important issues to which sons and daughters of Yorubaland should devote their energy and focus,” it read.
The palace emphasized the Alaafin’s commitment to unity, justice, and sustainable development, stressing that he holds the Ooni of Ife and other Yoruba monarchs in high esteem. “The Alaafin holds the Ooni of Ife—and all custodians of Yoruba heritage—in high regard and is deeply committed to working hand-in-hand with them to chart a new path of unity,” the statement added.
Rejecting any attempt to sow discord among traditional institutions, the Alaafin’s office called on the public to focus on collaboration, development, and cultural preservation rather than “digital sensationalism.”
This response comes after a post by Event Diary Lifestyle earlier highlighted the growing tensions online, fueled by viral clips and commentary regarding the nature of the royal exchange.
As the debate rages on, the palace urged the public to reject divisive narratives and instead embrace the strength of Yoruba tradition as a unifying force for progress.
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