Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent directives to traditional rulers in Yoruba land during a public event have ignited a flurry of discussions and debates. The controversy surrounding his actions raises questions about the motivations behind his surprising behaviour.

During the commissioning of projects in Oyo State, Obasanjo ordered the Yoruba Obas to stand up and greet the governor and then abruptly commanded them to sit down. This abrupt interaction left many baffled and curious about what could have prompted such behaviour from a former president known for his statesmanship.

Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Minister of Aviation, expressed his anger and disappointment at Obasanjo’s actions, emphasizing that they were disrespectful and a departure from the reverence traditionally accorded to monarchs in Yoruba culture. Fani-Kayode’s public criticism of Obasanjo further fueled the controversy, as it highlighted the stark contrast between Obasanjo’s recent behaviour and his past displays of humility before traditional rulers.

https://zeitgeist.com.ng/2023/09/17/obasanjo-traditional-rulers-humiliation/

One key aspect of the controversy revolves around whether Obasanjo’s actions were influenced by his association with Peter Obi during the last presidential election. Some argue that his alignment with Peter Obi may have contributed to a change in his demeanour and approach to traditional rulers.


Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has shed light on why he ordered traditional rulers in Oyo State to stand and then sit during an event. He explained that his actions were prompted by the seated monarchs’ failure to rise and greet the state governor, Seyi Makinde, which he considered a breach of protocol and a sign of disrespect for the governor and his office. Obasanjo emphasized the importance of respecting the governor as the leader of the state, as outlined in the constitution, and urged that protocols must be observed. He wanted the monarchs to understand that disrespecting authorities goes against Yoruba culture and that respect should be mutual.

The debate over Obasanjo’s actions is not limited to the Yoruba community; it has garnered attention across Nigeria and beyond. Many are left wondering about the implications of this controversy on Obasanjo’s legacy and his future role in Nigerian politics.

https://zeitgeist.com.ng/2023/09/17/obasanjo-traditional-rulers-humiliation/

As discussions continue to unfold, one thing is clear: Obasanjo’s surprising behaviour towards the Yoruba Obas has sparked a broader conversation about respect for tradition, political allegiances, and the evolving dynamics of Nigerian politics.

Ignorance is the major problem here!

Baba is practically right in his action, if not him then who else do you think will be in such capacity to correct such disrespect from those so called traditional rulers? .

Obasanjo remains one national leader that will go to any newly crowned King so long it's within the Oduduwa lineage and fall prostrate before their office. This has always help in promoting the authenticity and pride of the Yoruba nation but when it comes to do constitution the royal fathers are not exempted from showing respect likewise to their constituted superiors.

If you are a king and cannot stand seeing yourself honouring a superior government official then you remain in your palace

Let Obasanjo breath!

Obasanjo is right.
The Obas should be thanking him for his priceless advice. If they don't know they should know better.

This should also get royal fathers thinking on how to sponsor a bill that will adequately recognise them.

We saw how they attacked Pete Edochie for sitting and greeting the ooni. This level of intolerance is toxic to our country.