“The Handshake That Wasn’t”: Drama in Ibadan as Olubadan Allegedly Snubs Alaafin of Oyo at Public Event
There was noticeable tension in Ibadan after an awkward moment involving the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Alaafin of Oyo at a high-profile public event sparked conversations across social media.
Eyewitnesses at the event claimed that what was expected to be a routine royal exchange turned uncomfortable when a handshake between the two revered monarchs reportedly did not happen. The moment, captured on video by attendees, quickly spread online, triggering intense debate among cultural observers and members of the public.
The brief but highly scrutinised incident has since been dubbed “the handshake that wasn’t,” with many Nigerians analysing the body language and sequence of events. While some insist the moment was misunderstood or influenced by protocol, others believe it reflected deeper traditional or political undercurrents.
Neither palace has issued an official statement regarding the incident as of the time of filing this report. However, traditional historians and commentators have urged the public not to jump to conclusions, noting that Yoruba royal engagements often follow strict customs that may not always align with public expectations.
The incident has reignited discussions about royal hierarchy, protocol, and inter-palace relations in Yorubaland, with many calling for calm and respect for traditional institutions.
As the video continues to circulate, Nigerians remain divided over whether the moment was deliberate or simply a case of misinterpretation at a crowded public function.
