UPDATED: No problem between Makinde, Olubadan, say Ibadan elders

The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, on Friday said Ibadan elders have intervened in the reported disagreement between Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.

Ajibola stated this while addressing journalists at his residence, Aladewura House, Sanyo, in the Ibadan South-West Local Government Area of the state.

He urged the Olubadan to stay away from partisan politics in order to preserve the dignity and neutrality of the traditional institution, adding that the monarch should continue to serve as a father to all political actors regardless of affiliation.

He said, “I want to allay the fear of our people in Ibadanland that there is no problem between Governor Seyi Makinde and His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja. Our elders in Ibadan have waded into the matter.

“Most of you have been hearing a lot on social media. We don’t want problems in Ibadan anymore. You remember the era of Operation Wetie. Ibadan is ready to settle the matter. Our elders are up to the task,” he said.

PUNCH Online reports that former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, had earlier alleged that Governor Makinde was plotting to remove the Olubadan, a claim both the state government and the palace have repeatedly denied.

Fayose, in a post on his X handle, insisted that recent political developments were being misinterpreted as part of a wider plan targeting the monarch.

He said, “Those who are still in doubt, Governor Makinde’s plot to remove the Olubadan of Ibadan, Ladoja, should just keep their fingers crossed and follow unfolding events,” adding that counter-allegations against the monarch were part of an orchestration to justify action against him.

Meanwhile, the Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Gbenga Oyekola, had distanced himself from alleged impeachment discussions against the governor, saying he was not involved in any such arrangement and would not participate in actions capable of destabilising the state.

In his remarks on Friday, Ajibola also cautioned political office holders within the traditional hierarchy, including the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District, to avoid actions that could politicise the institution.

“My advice is simple. I have nothing against him, and I hold him in high regard. I do not want anything that will bring his office into disrepute.

“He should tread carefully and stay away from politics. The Olubadan is a revered traditional ruler, and his name should not be dragged into political matters. I want him to continue to be respected and upheld as a symbol of unity and tradition,” he added.