Dare Babalola
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has condemned former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over his claim suggesting a purported plan to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
Fayose had, via a post on his X account, alleged that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde was plotting to depose the traditional ruler, a claim that has sparked widespread reactions across Ibadan and beyond.
Reacting on Monday, CCII dismissed the allegation as false, inflammatory, and capable of disrupting peace in Ibadanland. The council warned that such comments risk dragging revered traditional institutions into unnecessary political controversy.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, CCII said the remarks attributed to the former governor were misleading and irresponsible, stressing that they could incite tension in a community known for its respect for order and tradition.
The President-General of the council, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, expressed strong displeasure over what he described as an attempt to interfere in the affairs of Ibadanland without proper understanding of its cultural structure.
Ajewole cautioned that the Olubadan institution operates a clearly defined and longstanding succession system that cannot be influenced by political speculation or external commentary.
He further urged Fayose to desist from making statements that could mislead the public or undermine harmony in Oyo State.
“Fayose should not inflame the polity in Ibadan and Oyo State in general with reckless and unverified statements. We advise him to keep his mouth shut and take his divisive politics elsewhere rather than dragging Ibadan into unnecessary controversy,” the CCII leader said.
The council also defended Governor Makinde, describing him as a bona fide indigene of Ibadanland who respects and upholds the traditions of the Olubadan institution.
According to CCII, attempts to drag the revered stool into partisan politics are unacceptable and disrespectful to the cultural heritage of Ibadan people.
The organisation called on political actors nationwide to exercise restraint in their public statements, warning that careless remarks could threaten peace and stability in sensitive communities.
It reaffirmed the commitment of Ibadan indigenes to unity, cultural preservation, and the protection of traditional institutions, insisting that no external influence would be allowed to destabilise the ancient city.
