Alaafin: no rift with Makinde, relationship with Olubadan cordial

Speaking with reporters in Oyo town, the monarch said there was no misunderstanding between him and the governor, stressing that issues, if they arose, would be addressed privately.

He said: “I have nothing against the governor. The governor has been very nice. If there is anything, I will meet him one-on-one and we will talk about it.’’

Addressing concerns over his recent absence at some state functions, the Alaafin attributed it to health challenges, noting that he had been indisposed for some time.

“There is no form of misunderstanding anyway. I have a good relationship with my governor. I have been indisposed for some time now. This is why I have been absent at state functions recently. But If there is a function, I will attend,” the monarch said.

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He also debunked rumours of strained relations with the Olubadan, insisting that both of them maintained mutual respect and understanding.

He attributed the issues to the creation of social media bloggers, whom he said were being used by some people to attack his person, position and the stool.

Recounting a recent incident that sparked speculation, the Alaafin said he had extended a handshake, which the Olubadan did not initially acknowledge, but later clarified that it was unintentional.

“I extended my hand to him, but he later explained that he did not see it. I don’t see it as an offence. After that incident, he called me, and we later met again at Aso Rock during an ‘iftar’. There is no misunderstanding between us.

“People have had to ask him too and he told them there was no quarrel between us. In fact, he picked his phone to call me and we spoke. There’s no issue whatsoever between us. We have mutual respect for each other,” he said.