In a dramatic twist to the unfolding controversy in Oyo State, former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, on Tuesday stormed Ibadan to pay a solidarity visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, warning Governor Seyi Makinde to “tread softly” amid allegations of a plot to remove the monarch—claims the palace has firmly dismissed.
Fayose arrived at the monarch’s Bodija residence at about 4:50 p.m, the visit comes on the heels of his earlier allegation that the Oyo State Government was making moves to unseat the revered traditional ruler, an assertion that has since sparked political tension and drawn widespread reactions across the state.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Fayose stood his ground, insisting that his claims were not made lightly. “I am here to pay a solidarity visit to Kabiyesi. In Yoruba land, when we hear things like this, we don’t keep quiet. I said what I said, and I have my reasons. I am not one of those who speak carelessly,” he declared.
The former governor maintained that his comments were based on credible information, adding, “Let us watch and see. Time will tell. I am not against anybody, but I will always speak the truth as I know it.”
He, however, used the occasion to issue a stern advisory to Governor Makinde, particularly as his administration approaches its final phase. “My advice to Governor Makinde is simple: tread softly. Power is transient. As you are leaving office, you must be careful so that you don’t find yourself in murky waters like some of your predecessors towards the end of their tenure,” Fayose warned.
He further cautioned political actors against dragging traditional institutions into partisan conflicts, stressing the need to preserve the sanctity of Yoruba heritage.
But in a calm and measured response, the Olubadan, Oba Ladoja, dismissed any suggestion of crisis, declaring that his throne remains secure and Ibadanland peaceful. “There is no problem. There is no issue between me and the government. Everything is under control,” the monarch said, effectively downplaying the controversy.
The Olubadan also warned against politicising the revered stool, emphasising that the institution must remain above partisan interests. “People should stop dragging the Olubadan stool into politics. The throne is not for political manipulation, and Ibadanland remains peaceful,” he added, reaffirming stability within the traditional system.
Sources within the palace described the meeting as cordial, noting that discussions centred on the allegations and the need to sustain peace and mutual respect between political authorities and traditional institutions. Although details of the private talks were not fully disclosed, both figures were said to have emphasised dialogue and restraint.
The visit has further heightened political attention in Oyo State, with analysts viewing it as a significant intersection of politics and tradition. While Fayose’s intervention reinforces his earlier claims and signals concern among political stakeholders, the Olubadan’s firm denial appears to steady the situation, even as calls intensify for caution to avoid unnecessary tension in Ibadanland.
