Ladoja’s Planned Dethronement: I Stand By What I Said – Fayose

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has reiterated his earlier claims that Governor Seyi Makinde is allegedly making moves to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, from the throne, insisting that he has no reason to retract his position.

Fayose made this known on Tuesday during a visit to the Olubadan at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, where he stated that his assertions were not speculative but based on what he described as credible and privileged information available to him. According to the former governor, his history of political disclosures, which he claims have often been validated by subsequent developments, gives him confidence to stand firmly by his latest remarks.

He argued that the unfolding political situation in Oyo State aligns with his earlier warnings, particularly his claim that the state government was planning to query the monarch over his absence at a recent coronation-related event. Fayose maintained that events in the last 48 hours have, in his view, reinforced suspicions that there may be deliberate actions targeted at the traditional institution in Ibadan.

Speaking further, Fayose alleged that the governor’s recent actions suggest a level of urgency that could carry political implications if not carefully managed. Using metaphorical language, he likened political power to a temporary tenancy, cautioning that those in office must remain conscious of their conduct and the legacy they intend to leave behind.

He warned that political tensions toward the end of a tenure are not unusual in Oyo State, urging Governor Makinde to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could escalate into broader institutional conflict. While clarifying that he is not opposed to the governor completing his tenure, Fayose stressed the need for caution, particularly in matters concerning traditional authority.

The former governor also suggested that misinformation and misinterpretation of events could be weaponised to justify actions against the Olubadan stool, urging stakeholders to remain vigilant. He maintained that he remains actively engaged in the political space and would continue to speak out on issues he considers critical to the future of the state.

“I stand by what I have said,” Fayose emphasised, reiterating his belief that there are underlying developments that may not yet be fully visible to the public, but which, according to him, could unfold further in the coming days.

Despite the weight of Fayose’s allegations, the Olubadan, Oba Ladoja, adopted a more measured tone, dismissing suggestions of any serious crisis between the palace and the state government. While appreciating Fayose’s visit and concern, the monarch described much of the circulating narrative as speculation driven by incomplete information.

Ladoja acknowledged that there have been various claims and counterclaims in recent days, including rumours suggesting that the palace was at odds with the government or even involved in political moves against it. However, he noted that none of these claims had been substantiated, urging the public to approach such reports with caution.

He further explained that confusion had been heightened by conflicting interpretations of events, with some narratives portraying the government as acting against the palace, while others suggested the reverse. According to him, such contradictions highlight the extent to which misinformation has shaped public perception of the situation.

In a reflective tone, the Olubadan emphasized the unique conflict-resolution culture of Ibadan, noting that issues within the city are often resolved through dialogue and internal mechanisms rather than public confrontation. He expressed optimism that any misunderstanding, if it exists, would be addressed once all relevant parties engage in direct discussions.

The monarch also pointed out that Governor Makinde was not currently in the state, expressing confidence that upon his return, necessary consultations would take place to clarify issues and restore calm. He reiterated that Ibadan is guided by a strong tradition of elder-led mediation, which has historically prevented political disagreements from escalating into major crises.

Ultimately, while Fayose’s remarks have intensified public discourse around the relationship between the state government and the traditional institution, the Olubadan’s response suggests a preference for de-escalation and dialogue. As both narratives continue to shape public interpretation, the situation reflects the delicate balance between political authority and traditional influence in Ibadan’s evolving power structure.

For now, there is no confirmed action indicating any move to dethrone the Olubadan. However, the strong claims and cautious responses from key figures have ensured that the issue remains firmly in the spotlight, with many observers closely watching how events unfold in the coming days.