The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, on Sunday, came down on former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over his comments alleging a plot by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja.
CCII President-General, Ajeniyi Ajewole, who made this known in a statement released by the council’s Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, in Ibadan, the state capital, said Fayose’s comments were not only misleading but also a dangerous attempt to politicise traditional institutions in the state.
It will be recalled that Fayose had, on his X handle, claimed that Governor Makinde was planning to depose the Olubadan, Oba Ladoja, a statement that has triggered strong reactions from stakeholders in the state.
He wrote: “I heard reliably that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is plotting the removal of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
“The plot is to commence this week, with a government query to be issued against the Olubadan, citing his absence at the failed coronation of High Chiefs in Ibadanland two weeks ago, and other allegations.”
The CCII described the former governor’s remarks as unfounded, provocative and capable of inciting unrest in Ibadanland.
The statement quoted the CCII President-General, Ajeniyi Ajewole, as expressing deep concern over what he termed reckless interference in Ibadan affairs.
Ajewole warned that Fayose’s remarks could create unnecessary tension in a city known for its respect for tradition and order.
“Ibadanland would not tolerate external attempts to destabilise its peace through careless political rhetoric. The allegation lacked credibility and should be disregarded by the public.
“Matters relating to the Olubadan stool follow a well-established process that cannot be altered by political speculation.”
He, therefore, cautioned Fayose against making statements capable of misleading the public or creating distrust among residents.
“Fayose should not inflame the polity in Ibadan and the 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.”
Ajewole further described Fayose’s intervention as unwarranted, insisting that the former governor had no role in the traditional or political structure of Ibadanland.
“Our own Governor Makinde is a true son of Ibadanland who would not do anything to undermine the institution of Olubadan. He is not in the same class and mould with Fayose who is ready to do anything for political gains,” the statement added.
He maintained that dragging the revered Olubadan institution into partisan discourse was both disrespectful and unacceptable.
The CCII President-General also called on political leaders across the country to exercise caution and avoid making statements that could disrupt public peace.
Ajewole reaffirmed that Ibadan people remain committed to unity, stability and the preservation of their traditional institutions, urging all stakeholders to resist any attempt to sow discord in the ancient city.
Meanwhile, a media aide to the Olubadan, Adeola Oloko, also dismissed Fayose’s claim, describing it as unfounded.
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