The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes has issued a sharp rebuke to former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose over his claim that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde was plotting to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, describing the allegation as unfounded, provocative and a reckless attempt to drag the revered institution of the Olubadan stool into partisan political controversy.
Fayose had on Sunday posted on his X account that he had received reliable information indicating that Makinde was planning to depose Oba Ladoja, alleging that the plot was scheduled to commence that same week with a government query to be issued against the monarch, citing his absence at a recent High Chiefs coronation ceremony in Ibadanland as well as other unspecified allegations. The post triggered an immediate and furious response from stakeholders across Ibadanland.
The CCII President-General, Ajeniyi Ajewole, speaking through the council's Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, said the former governor's remarks were not only misleading but deeply irresponsible and capable of inciting unnecessary tension and unrest in a city that had long prided itself on its respect for tradition, order and communal harmony. Ajewole expressed deep concern over what he termed reckless interference in Ibadan affairs by someone who had no role whatsoever in the traditional or political structure of Ibadanland.
He warned Fayose in blunt terms to desist from making statements that could mislead the public or create distrust among residents, and urged the former governor to take his divisive politics elsewhere rather than dragging Ibadan into unnecessary controversy. "Ibadanland would not tolerate external attempts to destabilise its peace through careless political rhetoric. The allegation lacked credibility and should be disregarded by the public. Matters relating to the Olubadan stool follow a well-established process that cannot be altered by political speculation," Ajewole said.
Going further, the CCII President-General defended Makinde against Fayose's insinuations, describing the governor as a true son of Ibadanland who would never act to undermine the institution of the Olubadan. He drew a sharp contrast between Makinde and Fayose, saying the two men were not of the same character or mould and that Fayose had demonstrated a willingness to do anything for political gain. "Our own Governor Makinde is a true son of Ibadanland who would not do anything to undermine the institution of Olubadan. He is not in the same class and mould with Fayose who is ready to do anything for political gains," the statement said.
The Olubadan's own media aide, Adeola Oloko, also dismissed Fayose's claim, saying there was no rift whatsoever between the governor and the monarch that could warrant any such action. He said he could see no basis for friction between the two men and described the allegation as entirely without foundation. The Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, was equally categorical in his denial, stating that the state government had neither contemplated nor discussed any plan to remove the Olubadan from his throne.
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