The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has rebuked former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over allegations that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, is plotting to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Ibadan, the council described Fayose’s claim as unfounded, misleading, provocative, and a dangerous attempt to politicise traditional institutions in Oyo State.
The CCII President-General, Ajeniyi Ajewole, in a statement released by the council’s Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, expressed concern over what he termed reckless interference in Ibadan affairs.
He warned that such allegations was an attempt to create unnecessary political tension in a city renowned for its respect for tradition and order.
“The allegation is not only unfounded but also capable of inciting unrest in Ibadanland,” Ajewole said.
“Ibadanland will not tolerate external attempts to destabilise its peace through careless political rhetoric.
“Matters relating to the Olubadan stool follow a well-established process that cannot be altered by political speculation.”
Fayose had earlier claimed in a post on his X handle that Governor Makinde was planning to depose the Olubadan, alleging that the move would begin with an official query over the monarch’s absence at a recent failed coronation of high chiefs.
The allegation has since drawn widespread criticism from stakeholders across the state.
Reacting, the CCII dismissed the remarks as baseless and urged the public to disregard them.
Ajewole cautioned Fayose against making statements capable of misleading the public or eroding trust among residents.
“Fayose should refrain from inflaming the polity with unverified claims,” he said.
“He should take his divisive politics elsewhere rather than dragging Ibadan into unnecessary controversy.”
The council further maintained that Fayose’s intervention was unwarranted, stressing that he holds no role in the traditional or political structure of Ibadanland.
It also expressed confidence in Governor Makinde’s commitment to preserving the revered Olubadan institution.
“Dragging the Olubadan stool into partisan discourse is both disrespectful and unacceptable,” Ajewole added.
“Ibadan people remain committed to unity, stability, and the preservation of their cherished traditions.”
Ajewole also called on political leaders nationwide to exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of undermining public peace.
Meanwhile, a media aide to the Olubadan, Adeola Oloko, dismissed Fayose’s allegation, describing it as unfounded.
“There is no rift between the governor and the Olubadan to warrant such claims. I see no cause of friction between them,” he said.
Similarly, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, denied the existence of any plan to remove the monarch, insisting that the state government had neither contemplated nor discussed such a move.