Governor Denies Disrespecting Oyo Monarch, Calls Viral Video a Misinterpretation
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has dismissed claims circulating on social media that he snubbed the Aláàfin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, at a recent public event, describing the insinuation as false and mischievous.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on New Media, Sunday Olugbenga Abire, the Governor said the viral video being shared online was “a misreading of a brief moment” and not a show of disrespect.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa is a proper Yoruba man, well-trained in the values of Ọmọlúwàbí. He has never and will never disrespect any royal father, whether in Ondo or outside the state,” Abire said.
He added that since his days as Deputy Governor, Aiyedatiwa has maintained cordial relationships with all traditional rulers across Ondo State, marked by mutual respect and collaboration.
The aide noted that the Governor has demonstrated his reverence for the traditional institution by building and equipping a state-of-the-art Secretariat for the Council of Obas in the state, while handling issues of chieftaincy and succession with fairness and neutrality.
“It is unthinkable that a man who honours all monarchs in his own state would suddenly snub the revered Aláàfin of Oyo in another state where he has no political interest,” Abire stressed.
He urged the public to disregard the viral clip, insisting that it was being circulated by mischief-makers attempting to create controversy where none exists.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa remains a peaceful, respectful and responsible leader who values the cultural heritage of the Yoruba nation,” the statement concluded.
