A member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebayo Babajide Gabriel, has strongly condemned alleged attempts to destabilise the state government through inducement and political interference, describing such moves as a grave threat to democratic governance.
Reacting to reports of a purported impeachment agenda against Governor Seyi Makinde, the lawmaker dismissed the development as both alarming and unacceptable, insisting that the Oyo State House of Assembly remains committed to upholding the mandate of the people.
Hon. Gabriel described as “absurd” any attempt by political figures, including a former governor and traditional ruler, to use their influence to interfere in the affairs of the legislature, particularly at a time when the state government is focused on delivering development-driven governance.
He revealed that concerns were raised during a recent meeting of lawmakers with the Speaker, Adebo Ogundoyin, over alleged efforts by certain actors to create division within the House and influence its proceedings.
According to him, there were claims that financial inducements ranging from ₦100 million to ₦1 billion per lawmaker were being offered to sway legislative actions capable of destabilising the system.
Further allegations, he noted, suggested that Florence Ajimobi was linked to an offer of funds to the Speaker for distribution to willing lawmakers, while Rashidi Ladoja was also alleged to have promised financial backing alongside political incentives in a bid to influence loyalty within the Assembly.
Hon. Gabriel, however, firmly denied that any member of the House had accepted such offers, stressing that lawmakers remain resolute and united in their support for the present administration.
“No member of the House received any money from anybody.
We stand firmly with the Governor and within our party,” he stated.
The lawmaker warned that if proven true, such acts represent a dangerous assault on democracy, adding that the legislature must never be reduced to a platform where public trust is traded for private political ambition.
Drawing historical parallels, Hon. Gabriel recalled similar political tensions in 2007 during the administration of Rashidi Ladoja, when, according to him, the State House of Assembly was allegedly used in ways that undermined governance and stability.
“That era must not repeat itself. Oyo State cannot afford a return to such destabilising politics,” he cautioned.
He further criticised what he described as the growing trend of “covert and unhealthy opposition tactics,” urging political actors to embrace constructive engagement rather than resorting to inducement and clandestine plots.
Reaffirming his position, the lawmaker declared unwavering loyalty to Governor Makinde, commending his administration’s focus on governance, infrastructure development, and the welfare of the people.
“Oyo State deserves better than politics driven by desperation and hidden agendas.
Our democracy must be protected, and the freely given mandate of the people must remain supreme,” he said.
“My loyalty is with Governor Seyi Makinde.”
