The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has distanced himself from ongoing political rumours in Oyo State, warning against attempts to involve him in partisan matters.
The monarch’s reaction followed speculation alleging that he and certain political actors were plotting to impeach the state governor. However, the claims were firmly dismissed as false and unfounded.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Media Aide, Adeola Oloko, the Olubadan described the reports as baseless, stressing that he has no involvement in political manoeuvring within the state.
Oloko clarified that traditional rulers do not possess constitutional powers to remove elected officials, including local government chairmen or state governors. He emphasised that attributing such authority to the monarch reflects a misunderstanding of Nigeria’s political structure.
“You don’t have to be a former governor or distinguished senator to know that a monarch has no power to impeach a local government chairman, let alone a state governor,” the statement read.
The Olubadan further urged residents and political stakeholders to refrain from dragging him into what he described as “dirty politics,” reiterating his commitment to neutrality and his traditional role as a custodian of culture and unity in Ibadanland.
The clarification comes amid heightened political tension in Oyo State, where recent developments have sparked speculation and public debate. However, the palace insists that the monarch remains focused on his duties and will not be drawn into political controversies.
