Speaking with newsmen in Ibadan yesterday, the monarch said the situation was neither intentional nor disrespectful

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has dismissed social media claims that he deliberately snubbed the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, at an inter-faith gathering in Ibadan, saying the incident was a misunderstanding exaggerated online.

Speaking with newsmen in Ibadan yesterday, the monarch said the situation was neither intentional nor disrespectful.

He stressed that his actions were guided by circumstance and protocol, not royal discourtesy.

“There was no intention whatsoever,” Oba Ladoja said.

“What happened was not deliberate. It has been misinterpreted, particularly on social media.”

According to the Olubadan, he arrived slightly late at the event.

He said he tried to take his seat quietly to avoid disrupting proceedings.

The monarch explained that seating arrangements and timing influenced his movement inside the venue.

“When I go late to a place, I try to bring good news,” he said.

“Just like at the mosque, when prayers are ongoing, you wait until people are properly arranged before joining.

“I was simply trying to take my seat before anyone would say I could no longer move.”

Oba Ladoja said his designated seat was positioned between specific sections of the hall.

This, he noted, required him to pass through certain areas.

By the time he returned, some dignitaries had changed positions.

He said this forced him to retrace his steps.

“My seat was between the Soun and the Alaafin. I had to pass through some people to get there.

“I did not take any decision to avoid or ignore anyone. Why should I?” he queried.

The Olubadan expressed concern over what he described as deliberate mischief by some commentators.

He said short video clips circulating online failed to show the full sequence of events.

“If you watch the full video, you will see that I greeted people, including the governor.”

“But social media often takes things out of context.”

On whether he had addressed any perceived grievances, the monarch said communication had already been made.

He insisted there was no tension or offence between the traditional institutions involved.

“I don’t believe anyone was being offensive. I do not see the issue as an insult to anybody,” he said.

Beyond the controversy, Oba Ladoja reaffirmed his commitment to unity and social development.

He said his focus remained on the younger generation.

“My focus is to unite the present generation and those coming after us. We must raise standards, especially in education. We should concentrate on what truly brings progress to our society,” Ladoja said.

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