The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes has strongly rebuked former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose over his claim that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is planning to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja.
The council, in a statement issued on Sunday in Ibadan, described Fayose’s allegation as false, provocative and capable of destabilising the peace in the ancient city.
The statement, signed by the CCII President General, Ajeniyi Ajewole, and released by its Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, accused the former governor of attempting to politicise a revered traditional institution.
Fayose had earlier taken to his X handle to allege that Makinde was plotting the removal of Oba Ladoja, claiming the process would begin with an official query over the monarch’s absence at a recent coronation of high chiefs.
Reacting, the CCII dismissed the claim as baseless and misleading, warning that such statements could incite unnecessary tension among residents.
The council stressed that matters concerning the Olubadan stool follow established traditional procedures that cannot be manipulated through political speculation.
Ajewole cautioned against what he described as reckless interference in Ibadan affairs, insisting that the city would resist any attempt to disrupt its long standing culture of peace and order.
He urged the public to disregard Fayose’s claim, noting that it lacked credibility and appeared designed to stir controversy.
The council further warned the former governor against making unverified statements capable of creating distrust, advising him to steer clear of issues concerning Ibadan’s traditional and political structure.
Ajewole also expressed confidence in Governor Makinde, describing him as a loyal son of Ibadanland who would not undermine the Olubadan institution for political gain.
He added that dragging the monarchy into partisan discourse was both disrespectful and unacceptable.
In a related development, a media aide to the Olubadan, Adeola Oloko, dismissed the allegation, stating that there was no disagreement between the governor and the monarch to justify such claims.
Similarly, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, denied any plan by the state government to remove the Olubadan.
The CCII, however, called on political actors nationwide to exercise restraint and avoid statements that could threaten public peace, reaffirming the commitment of Ibadan people to unity and the preservation of their traditional institutions.