Following media reports that Mogajis in Ibadanland have endorsed Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Oyo South Senatorial District, Mogaji Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe as their preferred choice in the 2023 general elections, the Association of Ibadan Mogajis has distance itself from the purported endorsement.
The Mogajis noted that there was never a time they single out anyone to be endorsed for any position, saying that they are in support of all the candidates contesting for various positions who are Indigene of Ibadan.
The President of the Mogaji, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, in a statement made available to Journalists on Tuesday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital maintained that though Tegbe was also one of them (Mogaji), but the Mogajis didn’t endorse him as their choice.
Recall that Tegbe was said to have been endorsed by the Mogajis at the Olunde residence of Mogaji Abass Oloko.
The statement reads:
“Our attention has been drawn to a rumor making round that we have endorsed Joseph Tegbe, he met us when the meeting was going on, the meeting was not purposely called for his endorsement.
“The true reflection 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, where he is soliciting for electoral supports.
“All the personalities at the meeting including me and the host of Mogaji Abass Oloko refuted the endorsement.
“Mogaji Joseph Tegbe is a prominent son of the soil and a Mogaji who 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 requests, but endorsement is far from the discussions.
“This issue has generated a lots of furore, we advise all our distinguished patriots, most especially Mogajis to stir clear of anything that could divide us.
“We deserve to be more united under His Imperial Majesty, The Olubadan of Ibadanland much more than ever”.
