Fayose Insists on Plot to Remove Olubadan, As Ladoja denies rift with Makinde, assures residents of peace

…Olubadan dismisses claims, stresses peace and unity

Former Governor of Ekiti state, Ayodele Fayose has alleged that Seyi Makinde is pursuing an agenda to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

Fayose made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the monarch at his residence in Ibadan, where he said he came to solidarize with the traditional ruler amid the ongoing controversy surrounding an alleged impeachment crisis involving the governor and the palace.

According to Fayose, recent developments have validated earlier warnings he made about political tensions in the state.

He insisted that his statements are always based on credible information, stating that his past revelations have consistently been proven accurate.

The former governor alleged that Governor Makinde had previously taken actions that were initially denied but later confirmed, citing instances such as controversial coronations and financial dealings.

He further claimed that the latest events, including reported moves to query the Olubadan over an aborted coronation, indicate an ongoing effort to undermine the monarch.

“Makinde has not stopped and may continue in his desperation,” Fayose said, warning that any attempt to remove the Olubadan could escalate tensions in the state.

Fayose also criticized the governor’s relationship with traditional institutions, noting that several monarchs installed during Makinde’s administration, including the Soun of Ogbomosho and the Alaafin of Oyo, do not appear to maintain stable ties with the government.

In a cautionary tone, Fayose reminded Makinde that his tenure is nearing its end, describing the governor as a “tenant” in Government House whose time in office is limited by the constitution.

He urged him to act with restraint and learn from past governors in the state.

Drawing parallels with previous administrations, Fayose noted that former governors such as Abiola Ajimobi and Adebayo Alao-Akala faced challenges toward the end of their tenures.

He warned that Makinde risks a similar outcome if caution is not exercised.

Fayose maintained that the issue goes beyond personal disagreements, emphasizing the need to protect the integrity of the traditional institution.

He also questioned earlier denials from both the government and the palace regarding any rift, suggesting that recent events now confirm underlying tensions.

“The signs are clear,” he said. “If the governor is wise, he should tread softly.”

While reacting to the Allegations of impeachment and the rift between Olubadan and Governor Seyi Makinde, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja

Olubadan Dismisses Impeachment, Dethronement Rumours, Calls for Calm in Ibadan dismissed reports alleging plans for his impeachment or dethronement, describing the claims as rumours and urging residents to remain calm.

He acknowledged Fayose’s concerns but said there was no evidence to support claims that the state government intended to sanction or remove him.

“A few days ago, when the report surfaced that the government was planning to discipline the Olubadan, we did not see anything to that effect,” he said, noting that his media aide had earlier dismissed the allegation.

The monarch also addressed fresh reports suggesting a rift between the palace and the state government, including claims of an impeachment plot involving the governor.

He described such reports as unfounded and misleading. According to him, Ibadan has a long-standing tradition of resolving internal disputes peacefully, emphasizing that any misunderstanding would be settled through established mechanisms.

“Ibadan has its own way of handling crises. There is a saying that Ibadan is like a room with many windows.

At the appropriate time, everything will be resolved,” he stated.

Oba Ladoja expressed confidence that the situation would be resolved soon, possibly within days, adding that elders in the city would play a key role in restoring harmony.

He also dismissed suggestions of any personal conflict with Governor Makinde, attributing the current tension to speculation and misinformation.

The monarch noted that the governor was reportedly not in town at the time the controversy escalated, expressing optimism that he would address the situation upon his return.

Reaffirming his commitment to peaceful leadership, the Olubadan stressed that his role is to serve all residents of Ibadan regardless of religion or background. “Ibadan is unique, and the Olubadan does not fight with anyone,” he said.

The monarch further emphasized unity among Ibadan indigenes, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the city’s peace and development over divisive narratives.