Prominent elders of Ibadanland have intervened in the reported disagreement between Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, urging all parties to prioritise peace and unity in the ancient city.
Speaking on Friday at his residence in Ibadan, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, assured residents that there is no rift between the Governor and the revered monarch. He disclosed that Ibadan elders have waded into the matter to douse tensions fuelled by social media reports and political speculations.
“I want to allay the fear of our people in Ibadanland that there is no problem between Governor Seyi Makinde and His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja,” Oba Ajibola stated. “Our elders in Ibadan have waded into the matter. Most of you have been hearing a lot on social media. We don’t want problems in Ibadan anymore. You remember the era of Operation Wetie. Ibadan is ready to settle the matter.”
The elders’ intervention comes amid recent allegations and counter-allegations, including claims linking the Olubadan to an alleged plot to destabilise the state government and separate accusations that the Governor was planning to remove the monarch. Both Governor Makinde and Oba Ladoja have previously dismissed such reports as baseless and unfounded.
Oba Ajibola emphasised the need for the Olubadan to remain above partisan politics, describing the traditional stool as a revered institution that symbolises unity.
He also issued a direct caution to the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District, advising him to focus on his traditional responsibilities rather than engaging in partisan politics that could drag the Olubadan’s name into political controversies.
“My personal advice to Baba Olubadan is simple. I have nothing against him, and I hold him in high regard. He should tread carefully and stay away from politics. The Olubadan is a revered traditional ruler, and his name should not be dragged into political matters,” the Balogun added. He urged Senator Alli to ensure his actions do not bring the traditional hierarchy into disrepute.
The elders’ peace initiative aims to prevent any escalation that could disrupt the relative calm in Ibadanland and Oyo State. Stakeholders have been called upon to support efforts at maintaining harmony between the executive and traditional institutions for the overall development of the state.
Ibadan elders reiterated their commitment to resolving internal matters amicably, drawing on the city’s rich history of peaceful coexistence and respect for its traditional leadership.