Segun Akanni, Toronto, Canada 
Reported By Abimbola Obatayo, Ibadan
The Council of Ibadan Mogajis (Chiefs) has urged the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, to keep his focus on the good service he is rendering in the state despite the controversy engineered by some political forces in respect of the ruling of the Court of Appeal on the petition filed against his election.
The Mogajis, who paid a solidarity visit to the Governor in his office, told the Governor that the people of Ibadanland and by extension, Oyo State, were solidly behind the Governor’s efforts aimed at developing the nooks and crannies of Oyo State.
A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the council, also known as Authentic Mogajis, asked the Governor not to waiver in taking the state to greater heights.
Mogaji Abdujelil Adanla, who spoke on behalf of the Chiefs said that the Governor should not be distracted, adding that his mandate cannot be tampered with or stolen.
The Mogajis who were present during the visit include: Mogaji Abass Oloko, Mogaji Kobomoje; Mogaji Olasomi Ademola, Mogaji Elekuro; Mogaji Adanla Jelili, Mogaji Oko-Are; Mogaji Ifalere Fagbenro, Mogaji Oke-Odo; Mogaji Musibau Dada, Mogaji Dada-Adeoyo and Mogaji Olawale Oladoja, Mogaji Akinsola, Labinran Quarters.
Mogaji Adanla said the Mogajis were solidly behind the government of Engr. Seyi Makinde, urging him to remain committed to delivering the dividends of democracy.
The Mogajis also displayed placards with inscriptions such as “Say no to Colonialism in Democracy,” “Our mandate is not for sale,” among others.
ln his remarks, Governor Makinde appreciated the Council of Mogajis for their love and support towards his administration.
He assured the people of Oyo State that the mandate they gave to him would not be stolen by anybody.
He said: It is pleasing seeing the Mogajis. Those who are willing to shake our mandate should note that this is Oyo State. And as our people say, “Ajisebi Oyo laari, Oyo kii se bi enikan” (Oyo is perpetually a Pacesetter, it doesn’t imitate anyone).
He added: “The Appellate Court judgement has nothing to do with the will and mandate given to me by the people. So, there is no need for people to entertain fear.
“The margin of defeat in the March 9 Governorship election is too wide for anybody to overlook.”
He asked the people of Oyo State to remain law-abiding and to go on with their lawful businesses.
Governor Makinde further said that his administration would not relent in its effort to better the lives of the people of Oyo State through the provision of social amenities.
