By Akinwande Soji-Ojo
The Association of Mogajis in Ibadan land has denied the alleged endorsement of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Oyo South Senatorial District, Mogaji Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, as their preferred choice in the 2023 general elections.
Recall that there were reports that Tegbe have been been endorsed by the Mogajis during a meeting at the Olunde residence of Mogaji Abass Oloko.
But the mogajis, in a statement issued by their president, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Tuesday, noted that though Tegbe is one of them, the Mogajis didn’t endorse him as their preferred choice.
They noted that there was never a time they singled out anyone for endorsement, stressing that they are in support of all the candidates contesting for various positions who are indigene of Ibadan land.
The statement read: “Our attention has been called to a rumor making around that we have endorsed Joseph Tegbe. Tegbe met us when the meeting was going on, the meeting was not purposely called for his endorsement.
“The true reflections of what transpired during the meeting between some Ibadan Mogajis and Mogaji Joseph Tegbe has clearly confirmed that there was never an endorsement but a mere meeting and soliciting for electoral support.
“All the personalities at the meeting including me and the host, Mogaji Abass Oloko, refuted the endorsement.
“Mogaji Joseph Tegbe is a prominent son of the soil and Mogaji, he has equal right just like any other sons and daughters of the soil. The Mogajis and any other groups can choose to meet any of our aspirants or candidates and listen to their request, but endorsement is far from the discussions.
“This issue has generated a lot of furore, we advise all our distinguished patriots, most especially Mogajis to steer clear of anything that could divide us.
“We deserve to be more united under His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadan land much more than ever.”
