Fayose Alleges Plot by Makinde to Dethrone Olubadan Ladoja

​IBADAN – Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

​In a statement shared via his verified social media handle on Sunday, April 12, 2026, Fayose claimed to have reliable information that the state government intends to initiate the dethronement process this week. According to the former governor, the move will begin with a formal query issued to the monarch, citing his absence from a controversial coronation ceremony held two weeks ago.

​The Coronation Controversy

​The allegations follow a period of heightened tension between the palace and the Agodi Government House. On April 3, 2026, Governor Makinde proceeded with the coronation of three High Chiefs as Obas—Sharafadeen Alli, Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin, and Oyekola Babalola—despite their physical absence and formal requests for a postponement.

​Oba Ladoja, who was crowned the 44th Olubadan in September 2025, reportedly boycotted the event. While the Olubadan’s media team previously denied any rift, stating the monarch remained “hale and hearty” in Ibadan, the “installation in absentia” has since sparked a firestorm of legal and traditional debate across the state.

​Fayose’s Warning

​Fayose, known for his blunt political commentary, warned that the governor’s alleged actions could lead to public disgrace.

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​“The plot is to commence this week, with Government Query to be issued against the Olubadan, citing his absence at the failed coronation… and other allegations. As for us, we will be watching the Sìgìdì of Seyi Makinde tó fẹ́ se eré ẹ̀tẹ́ (who wants to play a game of disgrace),” Fayose stated.

​Government Silence

​As of Sunday evening, the Oyo State Government has yet to issue an official rebuttal to Fayose’s claims. Sources within the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters remained tight-lipped, though insiders suggest the administration is frustrated by what it perceives as the monarch’s defiance toward state-led traditional reforms.

​Legal experts have already questioned the validity of the recent elevations, arguing that traditional rites cannot be performed by executive fiat in the absence of the appointees. If a query is indeed issued this week, it would mark an unprecedented escalation in the relationship between the executive and the ancient throne of Ibadan.