Aiyedatiwa Didn’t Snub Alaafin Owoade – Aide Explains Encounter

The Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor of Ondo State, Sunday Olugbenga Abire, has dismissed social media claims suggesting that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa deliberately snubbed the Aláàfin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, at a recent social event, describing the narrative as a clear case of misinterpretation.

Abire explained that the brief incident captured in a viral video was being sensationalised by those attempting to malign the governor’s image, noting that Aiyedatiwa remains a thoroughbred Yoruba man, well-schooled in the fine philosophy of Ọmọlúwàbí as upheld by the rich culture of the Yoruba people.

He recalled the governor’s long-standing cordial relationship with traditional rulers across Ondo State, which, he said, dated back to his days as deputy governor. According to him, Aiyedatiwa’s deep respect and affection for monarchs have been consistent, describing the governor as a man who “parades royalty in his blood” and has “never disrespected any crown in the state.”

Abire highlighted several gestures by the governor as proof of his reverence for the traditional institution, including the construction and equipping of a state-of-the-art secretariat for the Council of Obas and his government’s fair handling of succession matters in various communities.

The Governor’s aide dismissed claims of any tension between Aiyedatiwa and the Aláàfin, stressing that the governor “couldn’t have snubbed the revered Kabiyesi.” 

And, added that it was not in Aiyedatiwa’s character to slight anyone, let alone a traditional ruler.

“Those who are webbing the Governor into their hatred should look for another thing to do,” Abire said, describing the governor as “peaceful, responsible and respectful.” 

The senior aide questioned the motive behind the insinuations, noting that Aiyedatiwa, who had never disrespected any king in Ondo State, had no reason to do so in Oyo, a state where he holds no stake.

Photo Credit: Motunrayo Oyedele