A viral video showing an exchange between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, during the 90th birthday celebration of billionaire businessman Sir Kessington Adebutu in Lagos on October 24, has stirred widespread debate on social media.
In the video, both monarchs were invited to give brief remarks. After the Ooni of Ife concluded his speech, he handed the microphone to the Alaafin. However, before speaking, the Alaafin’s aides were seen using a handkerchief to wipe and cover the microphone—an action that immediately drew mixed reactions online.
While some Nigerians criticized the gesture as disrespectful, others defended it as a hygienic precaution, noting that bacteria and viruses can spread through shared microphones. A few observers also suggested that the Ooni might have unintentionally offended the Alaafin by handing over the microphone with his left hand.
The incident has reignited discussions about the long-standing rivalry and perceived battle for supremacy between the two powerful Yoruba monarchs. The Ooni of Ife ascended the throne in December 2015 following the passing of Oba Sijuwade, while the Alaafin of Oyo was crowned in April 2025.
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