Fayose Alleges Makinde Is Plotting to Dethrone Olubadan of Ibadanland
Former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose has made serious allegations against Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, accusing him of orchestrating a plot to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rahidi Adewolu Ladoja, from his traditional throne. The explosive claims were made public through Fayose's social media channels on Sunday, April 12, 2026, and have since sparked significant political discussions across the region.
Details of the Alleged Plot
According to Fayose, who serves as a prominent chieftain within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Governor Makinde intends to initiate the removal process this very week. The former governor stated that the plot would commence with the issuance of an official government query against the Olubadan. This document would reportedly cite the monarch's absence at a recent coronation ceremony for High Chiefs in Ibadanland, which ultimately failed to proceed as planned two weeks prior.
Fayose emphasized that he received this information from what he described as a reliable source within political circles. In his statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) using the handle @GovAyoFayose, 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."
Political Tensions and Implications
The allegations have brought to light underlying political tensions within Oyo State, particularly concerning the relationship between the state government and traditional institutions. Fayose concluded his statement with a pointed remark in Yoruba, stating: "As for us, we will be watching the Sìgìdì of Seyi Makinde tó fẹ́ se eré ẹ̀tẹ́," which translates to a warning that they will be closely monitoring the governor's actions.
This development occurs amidst ongoing political maneuvering within the PDP and raises questions about the balance of power between elected officials and traditional rulers in southwestern Nigeria. The Olubadan throne holds significant cultural and historical importance in Ibadanland, making any attempt to remove its occupant a matter of considerable public interest and potential controversy.
While Governor Makinde's office has yet to issue an official response to these allegations, the claims have already generated widespread discussion on social media platforms and among political analysts. Observers note that such accusations between high-profile political figures could signal deeper divisions within the state's political landscape.
