The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has expressed displeasure over reports alleging that he has joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the claim as false and misleading.
The monarch also warned journalists and media platforms circulating such reports to desist, noting that those responsible could face legal consequences if they continue to publish unverified information about him.
The warning was conveyed on behalf of the Olubadan by his spokesman, Chief Adesola Oloko, following a courtesy visit to the monarch by the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
Yilwatda had visited Ibadan to receive an award from a university and subsequently paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan Palace.
However, following the visit, reports emerged on some media platforms alleging that the Olubadan had joined the APC.
Reacting to the reports, Oloko described them as completely false, stressing that the courtesy visit had no political undertone.
According to him, the Olubadan, as the traditional ruler of Ibadanland, is at liberty to receive visitors from all walks of life, irrespective of their political affiliations or backgrounds.
“Whenever the opportunity arises, the Olubadan can receive anyone as a guest, whether the person is from Ibadan, Oyo State or elsewhere.
“About a week ago, the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, came to Ibadan to receive an award from one of the universities in the city and considered it appropriate to pay a courtesy visit to the Olubadan.
“That is what he does whenever he visits any place. Kabiyesi graciously received him and his entourage.
“He informed the Olubadan that he had come to Ibadan to receive an award from one of the universities and felt it was appropriate to pay homage to the monarch.
“Unfortunately, some people have been spreading reports that the Olubadan has joined a political party. They have also continued to abuse and malign him,” Oloko said.
The Olubadan’s spokesman expressed concern over the growing spread of unverified information, particularly on social media, warning against reckless reporting.
He said some individuals who lack professional journalism training have continued to publish false and sensational reports, thereby misleading members of the public.
Oloko warned those behind the false reports concerning the Olubadan to desist immediately, stressing that continued publication of fabricated information could attract legal action.
He also urged journalists and media practitioners to uphold the ethics of the profession by properly verifying information before publishing.
The Olubadan, he said, remains the traditional ruler of Ibadanland and should not be dragged into partisan political speculation simply because he receives prominent Nigerians on courtesy visits.
He therefore called on members of the public to disregard the reports alleging that the Olubadan has joined the APC, describing the claim as entirely false.
