Fayose Accuses Makinde of Plotting to Remove Oba Ladoja as Olubadan of Ibadan
Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has made a serious allegation against Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, claiming that the governor is actively plotting to remove Oba Rashidi Ladoja from his position as the Olubadan of Ibadan. In a detailed post on the social media platform X, Fayose asserted that this move to dethrone the traditional ruler is set to commence this very week, marking a significant escalation in the political tensions within the state.
Allegations of Government Action
According to Fayose, the Makinde administration plans to issue a formal government query against Oba Ladoja, using his absence from the coronation of High Chiefs in Ibadanland two weeks ago as the primary justification for the dethronement action. Fayose elaborated that this absence will be cited alongside other unspecified allegations, which he did not detail in his post. He wrote, "I heard reliably that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is plotting the removal of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rahidi Adewolu Ladoja. The plot is to commence this week, with Government Query to be issued against the Olubadan, citing his absence at the failed coronation of High Chiefs in Ibadanland two weeks ago, and other allegations."
Fayose's Response and Watchful Eye
In his statement, Fayose expressed a stance of vigilance, indicating that he and others will be closely monitoring the situation. He concluded his post with a phrase in Yoruba, "As for us, we will be watching the Sìgìdì of Seyi Makinde tó fẹ́ se eré ẹ̀tẹ́...", which translates to a warning about observing Makinde's actions carefully. This adds a cultural and linguistic layer to the controversy, highlighting the deep-rooted traditions and political dynamics at play in Ibadan.
Government's Silence and Ongoing Developments
As of now, the Oyo State Government has not issued any official response to the allegations leveled by Fayose. This silence leaves the public and stakeholders in suspense, awaiting clarification or denial from the governor's office. The situation remains fluid, with more details expected to emerge as the week progresses. The potential removal of a traditional ruler like the Olubadan could have far-reaching implications for the cultural and political landscape of Ibadan and Oyo State as a whole.
The allegations come at a time when traditional institutions in Nigeria are increasingly intersecting with modern political maneuvers, raising questions about the autonomy and respect accorded to such roles. Observers are keenly watching how this dispute unfolds, as it may set precedents for future interactions between state governments and traditional authorities in the region.
