IBADAN CRISIS: ELDERS INTERVENE AS MAKINDE, OLUBADAN DISPUTE SPARKS TENSION

IBADAN CRISIS: ELDERS INTERVENE AS MAKINDE, OLUBADAN DISPUTE SPARKS TENSION

Ibadan elders have stepped in to mediate in the reported disagreement between Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, in a move aimed at preserving peace and stability in the ancient city.

The Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, disclosed the intervention while addressing journalists at his residence in Ibadan South West Local Government Area. He reassured residents that efforts were underway to resolve the situation and prevent any escalation.

Ajibola emphasized that Ibadan’s traditional leadership structure remains committed to unity, urging the public to disregard speculative reports circulating on social media. According to him, the elders have taken proactive steps to ensure harmony between the state government and the revered traditional institution.

He also advised the Olubadan to maintain neutrality in political matters, stressing that the traditional ruler’s role is to serve as a father figure to all, regardless of political affiliation. He noted that preserving the dignity and non-partisan nature of the throne is essential to sustaining respect for the institution.

“We do not want any form of conflict in Ibadan. Our elders are already addressing the situation, and there is no cause for alarm,” Ajibola stated, referencing past periods of unrest and the need to avoid a repeat.

The development follows renewed allegations by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, who recently claimed that Governor Makinde was plotting to remove the Olubadan. The allegation was made public via social media and has been previously denied by both the Oyo State Government and the palace.

Fayose further suggested that accusations of political involvement against the monarch could be part of a broader attempt to justify actions against him. However, no official confirmation has been provided to support these claims.

Amid the growing political tension, the Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Gbenga Oyekola, has publicly distanced himself from alleged moves to impeach Governor Makinde. In a statement, he clarified that he was neither consulted nor involved in any such discussions, reiterating his commitment to maintaining peace in the state.

Ajibola also issued a caution to Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District and holds the traditional title of Ekarun Balogun, urging him to focus on his responsibilities within the traditional hierarchy and avoid actions that could politicize the institution.

Observers note that the intervention by Ibadan elders reflects a broader effort to safeguard the city’s longstanding cultural and political stability, particularly at a time of heightened political speculation.

While discussions continue behind the scenes, stakeholders have called for restraint among political actors and respect for traditional institutions to ensure lasting peace in Ibadanland.