A recent interaction between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, at the 90th birthday celebration of billionaire businessman Sir Kessington Adebutu in Lagos has sparked mixed reactions online.
In a viral video from the event, both monarchs were invited to the stage to deliver goodwill messages. After finishing his speech, the Ooni of Ife handed the microphone to the Alaafin.
However, before speaking, the Alaafin passed the microphone to one of his aides, who covered it with a handkerchief before giving it back to the monarch. The moment quickly caught the attention of guests and social media users.
While some Nigerians interpreted the gesture as disrespectful, others defended the Alaafin, suggesting it might have been a hygiene precaution, as microphones can transmit bacteria.
A few others speculated that the action may have been a subtle reaction to the Ooni handing over the microphone with his left hand, which some consider culturally insensitive.
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Both monarchs have long been perceived as traditional rivals, a sentiment often linked to the historical influence and status of their respective thrones.
The Ooni of Ife ascended the throne in December 2015 following the passing of Oba Okunade Sijuwade, while the Alaafin of Oyo was crowned in April 2025.
The incident has since fueled fresh conversations about Yoruba royal protocols and traditional etiquette among palace watchers and social media users alike.