A heated conversation is brewing across Oyo State over the perceived role of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, with some residents alleging that recent activities around the palace suggest the emergence of a “parallel government” operating alongside Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.
In interviews with residents across Oyo State, concerns were raised about recent decisions, pronouncements, and political engagements linked to the Olubadan’s office, with many questioning the lines between traditional authority and executive governance.
“What Oba Rasidi Ladoja could not accept during the Adedibu era is what he is doing now,” a resident in Ibadan South West said. “People are asking: do we now have two centers of power in Oyo State?”
Another resident linked the situation to broader politics, alleging federal apprehension about the governor’s influence.
“The fear of Governor Seyi Makinde has gripped the Federal Government. But here in Oyo, some people feel the Olubadan is sliding with the state by running activities that look like a parallel government,” the resident added.
The debate was further fueled by comments attributed to Oba Ladoja during a recent ceremony on the Ijebu Ode, Ibadan road. Some residents described the remarks as “unreserved” for a traditional ruler.
“That statement was not expected from someone who is supposed to be father to all,” a respondent in Ibadan North said. “Residents are reminding the Olubadan that there were rulers in Ibadan before him, and Ibadan was peaceful. Why is it that everything surrounding the Olubadan has been things at loggerheads?”
Others recalled similar tensions during the administrations of former Governors Adebayo Alao-Akala and Abiola Ajimobi, when the Senator Ladoja was also accused of political interference.
“We saw this same allegation during Akala and Ajimobi’s terms. Ibadan people don’t want a repeat,” another resident said.
Despite the criticisms trailing the palace, several respondents defended Governor Makinde, urging the public not to misinterpret his calm approach to state matters.
“If Governor Makinde keeps quiet, it doesn’t mean he doesn’t know what to do. He is a calculating leader who understands Ibadan politics. He knows when to act and when to watch,” a resident in Ipapo noted.
Other residents argued that the governor’s style of governance has brought stability and development to Oyo, and that any attempt to create confusion between the government and traditional institutions should be resisted.
Political observers say the current friction reflects Oyo’s long history of balancing power between the Government House and the Palace, a dynamic that became prominent during the era of the late Chief Lamidi Adedibu. They warned that failing to manage the relationship properly could distract from governance and development.
The tension has also sparked calls from community stakeholders for prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland to step in.
“If we don’t caution the Olubadan, his name will continue to be dragged in the mud,” a community leader in Itesiwaju warned. “The throne of Olubadan is revered. It should unite us, not divide us. Ibadan needs peace so that government can focus on delivering dividends of democracy.”
Some residents further urged that traditional rulers should concentrate on cultural preservation and advisory roles, while elected officials handle governance and policy.
“We respect the crown, but we also elected a governor. Let each institution play its role without stepping on the other’s toes,” a trader at Iseyin Market said.
