The palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland has dismissed reports suggesting a rift between the revered monarch and Seyi Makinde, affirming that both leaders maintain a cordial and respectful relationship.
In a press statement issued on Thursday and signed by the monarch’s Media Aide, Adeola Oloko, the palace described the claims as unfounded and misleading.
It stressed that there is “no rift between Kabiyesi and the Olori Omo Oba of Ibadanland,” urging the public to disregard such narratives.
The palace also debunked speculations that the Olubadan had travelled out of Ibadan to avoid the coronation ceremony scheduled for Friday, April 3.
According to the statement, the monarch remains in Ibadan, hale and hearty, and continues to discharge his royal duties.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Kabiyesi is in Ibadan and performing the role expected of him as Olubadan,” the statement read, reaffirming his readiness in relation to the planned ceremony.
However, the palace clarified that three High Chiefs expected to be coronated had formally notified the Olubadan of their inability to attend the ceremony as scheduled. The chiefs, according to the statement, requested a postponement of the event.
It further noted that the development had been duly communicated to the state government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, in line with established protocols.
The palace, therefore, called for calm and urged the public to rely only on verified information regarding matters concerning the Ibadan traditional institution and its leadership.