Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose has insisted that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde is plotting to dethrone the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja.
He spoke on Tuesday during a visit to the monarch at his Bodija residence in Ibadan.
His claims were based on privileged and reliable information, he said, adding that he had no reason to retract his earlier statements.
He said that events in recent days had continued to validate his position.
The controversy, he said, followed his earlier disclosure that the Oyo State Government was allegedly planning to query the Olubadan over his absence at a recent coronation-related event.
According to him, developments within the last two days had reinforced his belief that there were ongoing efforts targeting the traditional institution.
“Let me say it again: the current Governor of Oyo State has an agenda to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland. Whether it will succeed or not is another matter,” Fayose said.
Fayose further alleged that Governor Makinde had continued to act desperately, warning that such moves could have political consequences.
He urged the governor to tread carefully and avoid actions that could undermine traditional institutions.
But, the Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, dismissed reports of any crisis between the Ibadan traditional institution and the state government, describing such claims as largely speculative.
He expressed appreciation to Fayose for his visit but cautioned against drawing conclusions from unverified information.
He noted that while rumours of tension had circulated, there had been no concrete evidence of any confrontation between the palace and the government.
“Most of what we hear is hearsay until it is confirmed,” he said.
He also addressed reports suggesting that the Olubadan was planning to impeach the governor, describing such claims as baseless and misleading.
He expressed optimism that any misunderstandings would be resolved through dialogue, noting that Ibadan’s traditional system has mechanisms for peaceful conflict resolution.
He added:“Ibadan has elders that will always ensure reconciliation… I am very optimistic that the matter will be resolved amicably.”