Oyo Government Debunks ‘Plot’ to Dethrone Olubadan, Labels Claim False

Oyo Government Debunks ‘Plot’ to Dethrone Olubadan, Labels Claim False

The Oyo State Government has firmly denied allegations that it is planning to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, dismissing the claim as baseless and politically motivated.

The Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, in a statement, said there was no discussion within government circles about issuing any query or official communication against the revered monarch. He described the allegation as a fabrication intended to mislead the public.

“At no time has the government contemplated writing a query or memo to the Olubadan. Such an idea has neither been discussed nor considered. It is simply untrue,” Oyelade said.

He criticised the source of the report, urging journalists to uphold professional standards by verifying information before publication. According to him, the claim was part of a pattern of misinformation aimed at stirring unnecessary tension.

“This is a clear case of deliberate falsehood. The narrative is malicious and designed to serve a distorted agenda,” he added.

The government’s reaction follows remarks by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, who alleged that Governor Seyi Makinde was plotting to remove Oba Ladoja. Fayose had claimed, in a post on social media, that the process would begin with a formal query linked to the monarch’s absence at a recent coronation of high chiefs in Ibadanland.

However, stakeholders in Ibadan have also rejected the allegation. A prominent figure in the city, Bisi Olopoeyan, called on leaders across the South-West to caution Fayose, warning that such statements could inflame tensions if left unchecked.

He urged residents and the Yoruba community to disregard the claim, describing it as unfounded and capable of causing unnecessary anxiety.

Similarly, the media aide to the Olubadan, Adeola Oloko, dismissed the report as mere rumour, noting that there was no disagreement between Governor Makinde and the traditional ruler.

“It would be unfortunate if such claims are taken seriously. There is no friction between the governor and the Olubadan that could justify such speculation,” he said.

The state government reiterated its respect for traditional institutions, stressing that attempts to drag the revered stool into political controversy should be ignored.