The claim that the Olu of Warri refused to shake hands with a lady because she is “poor”

It is unfortunate—and frankly disappointing—that some people have chosen to twist this situation into a false and divisive narrative. The claim that the Olu of Warri refused to shake hands with a lady because she is “poor” is not only incorrect, it is a deliberate distortion of facts. For the avoidance of doubt, the woman involved is an event organizer, and this entire issue has absolutely nothing to do with her social or economic status.

The Olu of Warri does not owe anyone a handshake. A handshake with the Olu is never a right—it is a privilege, exercised solely at the King’s discretion. He shakes hands only when he chooses to, with whom he chooses to, and when protocol permits. That has always been the position. In Warri tradition, no individual has the right to stretch out a hand to a King in an attempt to shake him. If a handshake is to occur, it must be initiated by the Olu himself. Anything outside of this is considered improper and disrespectful.

Historically, the Kings of Warri did not shake hands at all. Long before the present century, such physical contact was not part of royal protocol. In fact, Warri tradition was far stricter than what we see today. When the Olu left the palace, he was required to wear a beaded mask that covered his face, leaving only his eyes visible. This was done to preserve the sacredness and distinctiveness of the crown. Over time, and with the realities of modern society, many of these practices were deliberately relaxed—not because tradition lost its value, but because interaction with the modern world required adjustment.

One of those adjustments was made to accommodate engagement between the traditional institution of Warri and Nigeria’s political institutions. This is why the Olu may shake hands with Presidents, Governors, and Senators, whose offices, under the Nigerian Constitution, rank above those of traditional rulers. Even diplomats or presidents of other countries. The same courtesy may also be extended to fellow monarchs, based on mutual respect between royal institutions. These are protocol-based exceptions, not a free-for-all.

What must be clearly understood is this: outside of these recognized offices and circumstances, no one has the right to initiate a handshake with the Olu of Warri. Respect for the crown requires restraint, not entitlement. The King’s composure, discipline, and consistency in upholding protocol should be applauded, not misrepresented.

Those pushing this false narrative are not interested in truth; they are interested in attention. As the saying goes, people always throw stones at the tree that bears ripe fruit. The Olu of Warri, by virtue of his stature, dignity, and progressive leadership, has become a constant target for mischief and misinformation. This is not new, and it is not surprising.

Finally, sincere appreciation goes to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the warm hospitality and the guided tour of the refurbished National Theatre. The engagement was a clear example of how traditional and political institutions can interact respectfully, each recognizing the place and authority of the other.
Culture is not ignorance. Protocol is not arrogance. Respect for the crown is non-negotiable