Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo Igboho has issued a stern public warning against any attempt to remove Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadan, vowing that such a move would trigger widespread disruption across Oyo State. In a video that circulated widely on social media, Igboho, who is also the founder of the private security network Iru Ekun, said: "Any governor who attempts to remove Olubadan, we will disrupt everywhere, and they will declare a state of emergency in Oyo State that same day. No one should dare to attack the Olubadan."
Political Rift Between Governor and Monarch
The statement was a direct response to rumours that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State was considering deposing the Olubadan over a growing political dispute between the two men. Ibadan serves as the capital of Oyo State, making the Olubadan one of the most prominent traditional rulers in the region. Igboho did not hold back in his language, framing any attempt to remove the monarch as a provocation serious enough to destabilise the entire state.
His threat of disruption, paired with a reference to a potential state of emergency, signals the intensity of sentiment surrounding the matter. The video, which was shared on X (formerly Twitter), showed Igboho speaking in the Yoruba language, addressing his supporters and the wider public directly.
Igboho's Role as Defender of Yoruba Interests
Igboho rose to national prominence as a vocal advocate for Yoruba self-determination and has previously led agitations across southwest Nigeria. As the founder of Iru Ekun, a private security outfit, he has positioned himself as a defender of Yoruba interests, including the protection of traditional institutions such as the Olubadan stool.
The activist's latest remarks come amid heightened political tension in Oyo State, where the relationship between the state government and the traditional institution has come under scrutiny. While no official confirmation of the alleged plot has been made by either the governor's office or the palace, the rumours have already sparked reactions from various quarters.
Implications for Oyo State Stability
Political analysts note that any move to depose a monarch of the Olubadan's stature could have far-reaching consequences for the state's stability. The Olubadan is not only a cultural figurehead but also a key stakeholder in the sociopolitical affairs of Ibadan, the state capital.
As of the time of this report, neither Governor Makinde nor the Oyo State Government has issued an official response to Igboho's threat. The situation remains fluid, with observers watching closely to see whether the rumours will translate into concrete political action or dissipate as speculation.
