A concerned indigene of Ibadanland, Mr. Lanre Gbadamosi, has called on the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, to uphold the tradition of political neutrality associated with the revered throne.

In an open letter dated April 14, 2026, Gbadamosi expressed deep respect for the monarch while emphasizing the cultural and symbolic importance of the Olubadan stool as a unifying institution for all sons and daughters of Ibadan, both at home and in the diaspora.

Gbadamosi noted that the ascension of Oba Ladoja to the throne marked a transition from his previous roles in partisan politics—including his time as a senator, governor, and political party leader—to a position that demands impartiality and fatherly oversight across political, religious, and social divides.

The letter follows recent reports and speculations of a rift between the monarch and the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, as well as circulating allegations contained in a letter by Honourable Gbenga Oyekola. The claims reportedly referenced prominent figures including Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and former Oyo State First Lady, Florence Ajimobi.

While acknowledging that the veracity of these claims remains unclear, Gbadamosi warned that such narratives risk drawing the traditional institution into partisan controversies, potentially undermining its authority and integrity.

He further cited past Olubadans who, despite prior political involvement, maintained neutrality upon ascending the throne. Among them were Isaac Babalola Akinyele, Daniel Tayo Akinbiyi, Samuel Odulana Odugade I, Emmanuel Adegboyega Adeyemo Operinde I, Lekan Balogun, and Owolabi Olakulehin, noting that they upheld the dignity of the stool by remaining above political contestation.

“The Olubadan stool is the single umbrella under which all Ibadan political actors take shelter,” Gbadamosi wrote, cautioning that any perceived partisanship could erode the monarch’s moral authority and threaten the peace and unity of Ibadanland.

He urged the Olubadan to embrace his role as a father to all, advocating for quiet diplomacy in handling disputes and equal openness to all stakeholders, including government officials, opposition figures, and ordinary citizens.

Gbadamosi concluded by appealing to the monarch to preserve the sanctity of the throne for future generations, stressing that his decades of political experience should now serve as a source of counsel rather than conflict.

The letter ended with prayers for a long, peaceful, and unifying reign for the Olubadan, alongside continued prosperity for Ibadanland.