Olubadan Palace denies rift between Oba Ladoja, Gov. Makinde

By Ismail Azeez

The Palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has dismissed reports alleging a rift between the monarch and Oyo State Governor, Gov. Seyi Makinde.

This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by Adeola Oloko, Media Aide to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing the claims as unfounded and stressing that there is no misunderstanding between the two leaders.

According to the statement, “The attention of His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has been drawn to a trending report alleging a rift between His Excellency, the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and Kabiyesi.

“The Palace wishes to state unequivocally that there is no rift whatsoever between Kabiyesi and the Olori Ọmọ Ọba of Ibadanland.

“The Olubadan Palace also wishes to clarify that Kabiyesi did not travel out of Ibadan to avoid the coronation ceremony earlier scheduled for April 3, 2026.

“For the avoidance of doubt, His Imperial Majesty is hale, hearty, and presently in Ibadan, where he continues to carry out his royal duties as expected of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“Furthermore, the three High Chiefs concerned, who were to be coronated, have formally informed Kabiyesi of their unavailability and consequently requested that the ceremony be postponed.

“This development has since been officially communicated to the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.

“The public is therefore advised to disregard any insinuation or report suggesting any misunderstanding between Gov. Seyi Makinde and the Olubadan of Ibadanland,” the statement added.