Ibadan Leaders Rebuke Fayose Over Olubadan Removal Claim, Defend Makinde Amid Rising Political Tensions!

April 13, 2026 5 Min Read

Reported by Mustapha Omolabake Omowumi (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa.

Prominent indigenes and stakeholders in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, have strongly cautioned former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose over his recent allegations that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is plotting to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The indigenes described the claim as “reckless, unfounded, and capable of inciting unnecessary tension,” urging Fayose to retract his statement and refrain from making comments that could destabilize the peace and traditional harmony of Ibadanland.

Allegation Sparks Controversy

The controversy began after Fayose publicly alleged that Governor Makinde was orchestrating a plan to remove Oba Ladoja from his position as the Olubadan. The claim quickly gained traction across media platforms, prompting reactions from political observers, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders.

However, Ibadan indigenes have dismissed the allegation, insisting that there is no credible evidence to support such a claim. They argue that the traditional institution in Ibadan operates under a well-defined succession and governance structure that cannot be easily manipulated for political purposes.

A spokesperson for a coalition of Ibadan elders stated, “The Olubadan stool is governed by a long-standing and respected system. Any suggestion that it can be arbitrarily interfered with is not only misleading but also disrespectful to our heritage.”

Defense of Traditional Institutions

The Olubadan institution is one of the most revered traditional systems in Nigeria, known for its unique and orderly succession process. Unlike many other traditional stools, the Olubadan system follows a clear hierarchy, ensuring stability and continuity.

Experts on Yoruba traditional governance note that the system is designed to prevent disputes and political interference. As such, allegations of external plots to remove a sitting Olubadan are often viewed with skepticism.

Community leaders emphasized that preserving the integrity of the institution is paramount. They warned that unfounded claims could erode public trust and create unnecessary divisions within the community.

Political Undercurrents and Interpretations

Observers suggest that Fayose’s remarks may be rooted in broader political dynamics rather than concrete evidence. As a prominent political figure known for his outspoken views, Fayose has frequently engaged in public commentary on governance issues across different states.

Political analyst Dr. Kunle Adeyemi noted that such statements often reflect underlying political rivalries. “In Nigeria’s political landscape, narratives can sometimes be shaped by interests that go beyond the immediate issue,” he said. “It is important to critically assess such claims and separate fact from speculation.”

Governor Makinde’s administration has not issued any formal statement directly addressing the allegation at the time of reporting. However, sources within the state government have reportedly dismissed the claim as baseless.

Calls for Responsible Public Discourse

Ibadan indigenes have used the opportunity to call for greater responsibility in public discourse, particularly among political leaders and influential figures. They stressed that statements capable of inflaming tensions should be avoided, especially in a diverse and culturally sensitive society.

“Leaders must understand the weight of their words,” said a community leader. “When prominent individuals make unverified claims, it can lead to confusion and unrest.”

The call for responsible communication aligns with broader concerns about misinformation and its impact on governance and social cohesion. Experts argue that accurate and balanced reporting is essential for maintaining public trust.

The Role of Media in Shaping Narratives

The media has played a significant role in amplifying the controversy, with various outlets reporting on Fayose’s claim and the subsequent reactions. Reputable organizations such as Punch Newspapers, The Guardian Nigeria, and Vanguard News Nigeria have covered the story, providing context and highlighting the responses from Ibadan stakeholders.

Media analysts emphasize the importance of verification and balanced reporting in such situations. They note that while it is essential to report statements made by public figures, it is equally important to provide context and counterpoints to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issue.

Historical Context of Ibadan’s Traditional System

Ibadan’s traditional leadership structure is deeply rooted in history, reflecting the city’s evolution as a major cultural and political center in southwestern Nigeria. The Olubadan system, in particular, is often cited as a model of stability and continuity.

Unlike other traditional systems that may experience disputes over succession, Ibadan’s hierarchical structure ensures a predictable transition process. This has contributed to the city’s reputation for maintaining relative peace in its traditional affairs.

Historians argue that this system has been instrumental in preserving cultural identity and fostering unity among Ibadan’s diverse population.

Implications for Governance and Stability

The current controversy highlights the delicate balance between political discourse and traditional authority in Nigeria. While freedom of expression is a fundamental right, experts caution that it must be exercised with consideration for its potential impact on societal stability.

Unverified claims involving traditional institutions can have far-reaching consequences, including the risk of unrest and erosion of trust in leadership structures. As such, stakeholders are calling for a more measured approach to public commentary.

Reactions from Civil Society and Youth Groups

Civil society organizations and youth groups in Ibadan have also weighed in on the issue, largely aligning with the stance of community elders. They have called for unity and urged all parties to prioritize the collective interest of the community.

A youth leader noted that the focus should be on development and progress rather than divisive narratives. “Ibadan has a lot of potential,” he said. “We should not allow baseless claims to distract us from addressing real challenges.”

Broader National Perspective

The incident reflects a broader trend in Nigeria’s political environment, where statements by influential figures can quickly become national talking points. It underscores the need for mechanisms to promote accountability and ensure that public discourse remains constructive.

Experts suggest that strengthening institutional frameworks and promoting media literacy could help mitigate the impact of misinformation. They also highlight the role of civic education in fostering critical thinking among citizens.

The Way Forward

As the controversy continues to generate discussion, stakeholders are calling for calm and restraint. They emphasize the importance of dialogue and verification in addressing sensitive issues.

Ibadan indigenes have reiterated their commitment to protecting the integrity of their traditional institutions and maintaining peace within the community. They have also expressed confidence in the existing governance structures, both traditional and political.

For Sele Media Africa, the story underscores the complex interplay between politics, tradition, and public communication in Nigeria. It highlights the need for responsible leadership and informed engagement in navigating such challenges.

Conclusion

The rebuttal by Ibadan indigenes to Ayodele Fayose’s claim regarding an alleged plot to remove the Olubadan reflects a broader commitment to preserving cultural heritage and ensuring stability. While political discourse remains an integral part of democratic engagement, it must be grounded in accuracy and responsibility.

As Nigeria continues to evolve, the relationship between political actors and traditional institutions will remain a critical area of focus. Ensuring that this relationship is characterized by mutual respect and constructive dialogue will be essential for sustaining peace and progress.

Sources
Punch Newspapers

The Guardian Nigeria

Vanguard News Nigeria

Channels Television

The Nation Nigeria