Tension in Ibadan as Fayose alleges plot to dethrone Olubadan
An uneasy calm has enveloped Ibadan as residents and palace watchers grapple with fresh claims by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, alleging a looming plot to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland,Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a development that has stirred anxiety across the ancient city where tradition and politics often collide.
In a post shared Sunday on his X handle, Fayose claimed he had it on “reliable authority” that the Seyi Makinde administration was set to initiate a process that could lead to the monarch’s removal.
According to him, the alleged move may begin with the issuance of a government query against the Olubadan, reportedly linked to his absence at a recent controversial coronation of high chiefs in Ibadanland, alongside other unspecified allegations.
”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 said.
”As for us, we will be watching the Sìgìdì of Seyi Makinde tó fẹ́ se eré ẹ̀tẹ́…”. He added.
The claim, though unverified, has quickly rippled through Ibadan’s social and political circles, reigniting conversations about the delicate balance between traditional authority and state power.
Fayose, known for his blunt political commentary, warned that “they will be watching,” deploying a mix of Yoruba expression and political undertone to signal what he described as unfolding intrigue.
The relationship between Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja and Governor Seyi Makinde has been widely perceived as strained, rooted in long-standing disagreements over chieftaincy reforms and the structure of traditional leadership in Ibadan.
Tensions date back to Ladoja’s days as a high chief, when he opposed certain reforms to the Olubadan chieftaincy system, particularly moves that sought to elevate some high chiefs to beaded-crown monarchs, a policy backed at different times by successive administrations.
Although Makinde later revisited and modified aspects of the chieftaincy arrangement upon assuming office, cracks persisted, especially around issues of authority, protocol, and recognition among Ibadan’s traditional hierarchy.
More recently, the reported absence of the Olubadan at a high-profile coronation ceremony involving some chiefs has deepened speculation of discord, with observers interpreting it as a symbolic protest or a sign of unresolved differences.
Despite the undercurrents, both the state government and the palace have largely maintained official restraint in public, making Fayose’s allegation the most direct public claim yet suggesting a possible escalation.
Although, the palace in the last couple of days had declared that there was no misunderstanding between the Governor and Oba Ladoja. The present allegation has further revealed a fresh dimension to the seeming frosty relationship between the parties.
As at press time, neither the state government nor the palace has commented on the allegation.
