The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has dismissed allegations linking him to an alleged plot to remove the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, describing the claims as false and misleading.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the monarch made the clarification in a statement issued by his media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko.
In the statement, the traditional ruler said the claims suggesting his involvement in moves to unseat the governor were unfounded.
He cautioned individuals and political actors against dragging the revered Olubadan throne into what he described as partisan political disputes.
According to the monarch, the allegation was not only baseless but also capable of misrepresenting the role of traditional institutions in governance.
Oba Ladoja further described the claim as illogical, stressing that a traditional ruler does not possess constitutional authority to remove a sitting governor.
He explained that the Nigerian constitution clearly outlines the processes for removing elected public office holders.
“It is illogical to suggest that a traditional ruler could have the constitutional authority to remove a sitting governor,” the statement noted.
He added that even a local government chairman cannot be removed from office by any traditional ruler.
The Olubadan reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the dignity and neutrality of the traditional institution.