Oyo State was last week gripped by political tension following allegations of an impeachment plot involving huge financial inducements, alongside claims of internal rifts within the state’s political and traditional institutions.
At the centre of the controversy are Governor Seyi Makinde, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
The crisis reportedly began during a Peoples Democratic Party caucus meeting in the Assembly, where disagreements among lawmakers escalated into a confrontation over alleged plans to remove the Speaker.
Sources said the development exposed divisions within the ruling party, with some lawmakers opposing any move against the Speaker, while others were believed to be sympathetic to leadership changes.
Amid the tension, claims also emerged of a separate plot to impeach the governor, allegedly backed by inducements running into N1bn, raising fears of a looming executive-legislative clash.
However, former Oyo State First Lady, Florence Ajimobi, denied any involvement in the alleged plot, describing the claims as false and politically motivated.
In a related development, Ogundoyin confirmed that he was approached with an offer of inducement but said he rejected it.
“I was offered money, but I declined. No amount can compromise my conscience or the mandate of the people,” he said, reaffirming his loyalty to the governor and the party.
He also dismissed reports linking him to any arrangement with opposition elements.
Sources within the Assembly suggested that the crisis may be tied to internal political rivalries and perceived ambitions ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
According to one source, the Speaker’s growing political influence may have unsettled some interests within the political structure.
As tensions mounted, Makinde convened a meeting with lawmakers, where he reportedly called for unity and an end to the dispute.
The intervention is said to have calmed frayed nerves, with lawmakers agreeing to maintain the existing leadership of the House.
Meanwhile, a separate controversy arose following claims by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, alleging that Makinde was plotting to remove the Olubadan.
The monarch, however, dismissed the allegation, describing it as speculation and expressing confidence that the situation would be resolved amicably.
Clarifying his earlier visit to the palace, the Speaker said it was merely to seek royal blessings for his political ambition and had no connection with any impeachment plot.
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Also speaking, the state Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said the government was monitoring developments and would respond when necessary.
Although calm has returned following the governor’s intervention, observers say the episode highlights underlying tensions and power struggles within the state’s political landscape.
