Olubadan's Son Denies Alleged APC Ticket Offer to Oyo Speaker, Threatens Evidence
Shola Ladoja, the son of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has strongly refuted claims that the monarch offered the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, a House of Representatives ticket under the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a heated response, Ladoja threatened to release evidence if Ogundoyin does not take appropriate action to address the allegations.
Allegations and Statements from the Chief Whip
The controversy began when Hon. Gbenga Oyekola, the Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Member Representing Atiba State Constituency, issued a statement regarding a meeting between Speaker Ogundoyin and the Olubadan. According to Oyekola, Ogundoyin visited the Olubadan to seek support for his governorship ambition. He claimed that the monarch advised Ogundoyin and offered to secure an APC House of Representatives ticket for him, along with the necessary funds to prosecute the election. Oyekola further stated that Ogundoyin declined this offer.
Son's Reaction and Threats
Reacting to these claims, Shola Ladoja dismissed the assertions made by the Chief Whip about discussions on a House of Representatives ticket. He urged Ogundoyin to do the right thing, emphasizing that there is evidence of what transpired during the meeting with the Olubadan. In a post on X, Ladoja said, "I was the one who took Debo Ogundoyin to Kabiyesi (my father) because he begged me to. Dear Chief Whip, you have just been used as a tool by a coward and liar. I will release receipts if Debo doesn’t do the right thing. All because of his selfish ambitions to be governor."
Clarification on Evidence
In a subsequent post, Ladoja clarified his earlier statement to avoid misunderstandings. He explained, "My recent tweet was deleted because I realised a lot of people thought I meant a payment receipt. No. I meant receipt of our conversations. Debo, on the 25th of March, begged me to take him to my father to back him for the gubernatorial ambition, which I was very hesitant to do. Kabiyesi only advised him on how to go about the screening and prayed for him. Whoever is spreading this rumour only wants to create a rift between Kabiyesi and His Excellency. Please leave us out of this."
Political Implications and Context
This dispute highlights ongoing political tensions in Oyo State, particularly involving key figures such as the Olubadan, the state assembly speaker, and other political actors. The allegations and denials revolve around issues of ambition, support, and potential electoral strategies, which could impact local governance and party dynamics. The situation underscores the delicate balance between traditional institutions and modern political maneuvers in Nigeria.
As the controversy unfolds, stakeholders are watching closely to see if further evidence will be released and how it might influence the political landscape in Oyo State. The involvement of the Olubadan, a respected traditional ruler, adds a layer of cultural significance to the dispute, making it a matter of public interest beyond mere political rivalry.
