Tension in Ibadan: Makinde, Assembly, And Traditional Throne Dragged Into ₦1bn Inducement Saga

Oyo State was thrown into a wave of political tension last week as allegations of impeachment plots, multi-billion-naira inducement claims, and widening internal party divisions threatened stability across the executive, legislative, and traditional institutions in Ibadan.

Prominent figures linked to the unfolding situation include Governor Seyi Makinde, Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose.

The crisis reportedly began during a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caucus meeting at the Oyo State House of Assembly, which escalated into a heated confrontation among lawmakers.

According to sources cited by Vanguard, the meeting became tense and exposed growing divisions within the ruling party, particularly over alleged moves to remove the Speaker.

While some lawmakers reportedly resisted attempts to oust Ogundoyin, others were said to support efforts to change the leadership of the Assembly.

₦1 Billion Allegation Deepens Crisis

Tensions further heightened following allegations of a plot to impeach Governor Makinde, allegedly linked to inducements amounting to ₦1 billion.

The claim generated widespread political concern, though former First Lady Florence Ajimobi firmly denied any involvement, describing the allegations as false and politically motivated.

She dismissed the reports as “malicious propaganda” and warned that legal action could follow.

Speaker Rejects Alleged Bribe

In a dramatic response, Speaker Ogundoyin confirmed he was allegedly approached with financial inducements connected to the impeachment plot but said he rejected them outright.

He stated that his integrity could not be compromised, adding that he remained committed to both Governor Makinde and the PDP.

He also dismissed claims of involvement in any financial dealings linked to the crisis, describing them as unfounded and politically driven.

Internal Power Struggle Alleged

Some insiders suggested that the crisis may be linked to efforts to weaken Ogundoyin’s growing political influence, including speculation about his future ambitions.

One source claimed that his consultations with the Olubadan of Ibadanland may have unsettled certain political actors.

The source further alleged that efforts were underway to create mistrust between the Speaker and the governor.

Governor Steps In

Amid rising tensions, Governor Makinde reportedly intervened by convening an emergency meeting with lawmakers.

Following the discussions, sources said the governor reaffirmed his position, which helped de-escalate the situation and halt impeachment moves.

Lawmakers were subsequently directed to maintain unity with the Speaker, restoring relative calm within the Assembly.

Fayose Raises Fresh Allegation

Meanwhile, Ayo Fayose alleged that Governor Makinde was planning to remove the Olubadan, a claim that further stirred political debate.

He warned against actions that could undermine the governor’s legacy, insisting that recent developments supported his claims.

Monarch and Stakeholders React

Oba Rashidi Ladoja dismissed much of the speculation, describing it as hearsay and expressing confidence that traditional and political leaders would resolve the matter amicably.

He also used a proverb to suggest that blame in the situation was already known within political circles.

Ogundoyin clarified that his visit to the Olubadan was purely consultative and related to seeking royal blessings for his political ambitions, not linked to impeachment discussions.

Similarly, Shola Ladoja denied any connection between the meeting and alleged inducement or impeachment plots.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said the government was still reviewing the situation and would respond officially at the appropriate time.