The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has strongly criticised former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over his recent comments alleging a plot to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing the remarks as baseless, provocative, and capable of inciting tension in the ancient city.
Fayose had claimed that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, was planning to depose the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, an allegation that has triggered backlash from stakeholders in Oyo State.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, the CCII said the comments were misleading and amounted to an attempt to politicise a respected traditional institution.
The council said the remarks risked disturbing the peace of Ibadanland, noting that the city is known for its stability, respect for tradition, and orderly succession processes.
President-General of the CCII, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, was quoted as expressing concern over what he described as reckless interference in Ibadan affairs, warning that such statements could generate unnecessary tension.
He stressed that issues concerning the Olubadan stool follow a clearly defined traditional process that cannot be influenced by political speculation or external pressure.
Ajewole urged Fayose to refrain from making statements capable of misleading the public or creating distrust among residents, adding that Ibadan would not tolerate attempts to destabilise its peace.
He further stated that Fayose’s allegation lacked credibility and should be disregarded, insisting that the former governor had no standing within the traditional structure of Ibadanland.
According to him, Governor Makinde is a “true son of Ibadanland” who would not undermine the Olubadan institution, while warning against dragging the revered stool into partisan disputes.
The CCII leadership also called on political actors across the country to exercise restraint in their public comments, especially on sensitive traditional matters.
It reaffirmed its commitment to unity and stability in Ibadanland, urging stakeholders to resist any attempt to sow discord within the community.