Osun 2022: Don't mind naysayers, you have been chosen to rule Osun for second term - Ataoja, Olobu tell Oyetola

...as gov rounds off strategic engagement tour in Osogbo Federal Constituency

The Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, and the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan, have reiterated their support for Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, saying they were resolute to work for his success in the forthcoming governorship election.

The monarchs showered encomiums and prayers on the Governor for his modest achievements in the last three years, just as they assured him of their royal backing before, during and after the July 16 governorship election in the State.

This is even as the Governor rounded off his strategic engagement tour across the nine Federal Constituencies of the State in Osogbo, the State capital, on Thursday night.

Governor Oyetola had in the last three weeks embarked on a familiarisation visit to each of the 30 Local Government Areas, including Ife-East Area Office, to identify and solidarise with the newly- elected executives of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the State.

Receiving the Governor in his palace, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, threw his weight behind Governor Oyetola who he described as a promise keeper.

The reverred traditional ruler said the Governor has performed excellently well and the time has come for the people of Osogbo and the entire State to reciprocate the good gesture.

"You are doing well for all the four towns in Osogbo Traditional Council. I have been sent to commend you for all you have been doing to transform the State and give Osun a new development facelift.

"You have been doing well. You were part of the previous Administration where Osogbo was progressing. Our thought was that it would end there when the former Administration came to an end. But when you came on board, the progress was marvelous. For whatever reason, we will not leave you, we shall continue to be with you.

"We know you are not a noise maker but a great doer, a performer and a reformer whose passion for the people's welfare is second to none. You have indeed written your name in the sand of time and your imprints will continue to live forever after your eight years in office.

"One doesn't need to be told about your monumental achievements across sectors because they are clear enough for the blind to see and audible enough for the deaf to hear.

"Waiting for you till this time since morning is an attestation to the fact that you are a good man. If you are not doing well for us, we won't wait for you for this long. We have resolved to continue to vote for you. We shall continue to support you. You are doing well.

"You are a promise keeper. I can't explain how much you have been good to us but I know that God in His infinite mercy will not forsake you but strengthen you and imbue you with more knowledge and wisdom to continue to paddle the ship of our State to the promised land.

"So no matter what the people say, you are the best choice for us at the moment. I am not afraid of anyone except God. You have been answerable to our requests. I am assuring you not to panic. Though I don't have a command over the electorate, I am confident in God that they will support you and vote for you in the next governorship election and you will be returned elected by God's grace", Ataoja said.

In the same vein, Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan, acknowledged the monumental achievements of the Administration of Governor Oyetola, which he described as unprecedented in the history of the State.

Oba Olaniyan who implored the Governor to remain steadfast and not be distracted, said, "We are solidly behind you and we are ready to mobilize our subjects to re-elect you.

"I greet you and welcome you warmly into Olobu's palace. You have never disappointed me and the entire traditional rulers in the State. Coming to my palace is just a necessity to fulfill all righteousness. Otherwise, you know that we are for you and for your government.

"We are aware of the happenings around, particularly within the political class; but we are firm and resolute in God because we know that your ambition is God's promise. 

"I urge you to continue your good works  you have been doing. All that has been happening is just for you to know God the more. He knows us beyond our imagination. You will continue to rise. You will get there. You will win by the grace of God.

"God will fight for you, your prayers will be answered. You have been doing great for the State. God will reward your good works. You have been so good to me. Please put your mind at rest", Olobu added.

Speaking on behalf of the High Chiefs in  Ifon Orolu Kingdom, Eesa of Ifon-Osun, High Chief Oyetunde Oyetunji, assured the Governor of their unalloyed support, saying he has paid his dues to be returned for second term.

While addressing the people at the various places visited, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola expressed gratitude to the monarchs and party leaders and members for always being there for him and his government. He promised not to let them down.
 
"What I have seen here is a sign that we have people, not crowd. It is a sign that by the grace of God we have won. I have visited 30 Local Government Areas and Area Office, and I did this to let you know how important you are to us.

"We know you are for us. If I may ask, where have those that are contesting gone to? Our visits across the State are signs of seriousness and avowed commitment to ensuring that we consolidate on the good works that God has been helping us to do.

"So, I want you to put your mind at rest. Don't allow anything or anyone to intimidate you. We are fully on the ground and we shall do everything within the ambit of the law to protect the State and ensure unending peace before, during and after the polls.

"Please go out in large number on Saturday with your membership slips to vote for us, and I assure you that we will not disappoint you", Oyetola added.