On Tuesday, the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde and top members of his government visited the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Akanmu Olasupo Adetunji, Aje Ogunguniso 1 to give him presents on the Monarch's 92nd birthday.
In pictures released on the Governor's social media handles, he could be seen prostrating himself to greet the revered Monarch.
Ideally, this is a sign of respect among the Yorubas but civilisation has almost eroded this beautiful culture; it is now believed that political power is more relevant than traditions.
Governors appoint kings and as such, seen as the most powerful in their states. Despite being aware of this, Seyi Makinde still bowed respectfully to greet Oba Saliu.
For the latter part of his tenure, late Abiola Ajimobi was at loggerheads with the King over some alterations made to the Ibadan kingship system by the government. At a point, Ajimobi reminded the King that he could dethrone him. The fight culminated into the devastating loss of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the polls in the last general elections.
It would also be recalled that former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala also had issues with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi which also took negative effect on the reelection bid of the former in 2011.
However, it seems Seyi Makinde has been managing his relationship with the royal fathers well by according them the respect they deserve. One can only wish for this rare level of humility from the billionaire Governor.
