Oyo State narrowly avoided a major political crisis last week as tensions involving impeachment plots, internal party divisions, and traditional institution controversies threatened ility in Ibadan.
At the centre of the unfolding drama were Governor Seyi Makinde, Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, and former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose.
The crisis reportedly began within the Oyo State House of Assembly during a Peoples Democratic Party caucus meeting, which quickly escalated into a heated confrontation among lawmakers. Divisions emerged over alleged plans to remove the Speaker, alongside rumours of a wider plot to impeach Governor Makinde.
Adding to the tension were claims of financial inducements running into billions of naira. Ogundoyin confirmed he was approached with monetary offers linked to impeachment efforts but firmly rejected them, pledging loyalty to the governor and the Peoples Democratic Party.
Sources suggested the crisis was fueled by internal rivalries and fears over Ogundoyin’s rising political profile, including speculation about his governorship ambition. Some lawmakers were allegedly attempting to weaken his influence and create friction between him and the governor.
Amid the turmoil, Makinde intervened decisively by convening an emergency meeting with lawmakers. The move helped de-escalate tensions, with the governor reportedly directing members to support the existing Assembly leadership and maintain unity. The intervention restored order, allowing legislative activities to resume.
Parallel to the Assembly crisis, controversy also surrounded the traditional institution. Fayose alleged that Makinde was plotting to remove the Olubadan, a claim strongly dismissed by Oba Ladoja, who described such reports as hearsay and expressed confidence in peaceful resolution.
Further clarifications from key figures, including Ogundoyin and representatives of the Olubadan palace, helped calm public anxiety, emphasizing that consultations and meetings had no link to impeachment plots.
Although calm has returned, political observers warn that underlying tensions remain. The episode highlights deepening power struggles, competing ambitions, and fragile alliances within Oyo State’s political landscape.
For now, ility has been restored, but the events of the past week suggest that the state’s political dynamics remain volatile, with the potential for future conflicts still looming.
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