In an exclusive interview with The Mog Journals News, Mogaji Ejilola Sefiu Abiodun of the Ejilude Alakoko Compound in Ibadanland has passionately called on the government at all levels to prioritize infrastructural development in traditional family compounds across Ibadan and Oyo State.
Speaking on the challenges facing many indigenous communities, the respected Mogaji lamented the lack of accessible roads, potable water, solar street lighting, and modern infrastructure in several ancient compounds, describing the situation as a major obstacle to growth and development.
According to him, meaningful development cannot be achieved through the sharing of rice and money alone, stressing that sustainable infrastructure remains the real empowerment the people need.
Mogaji Ejilola explained that many Ibadan Mogajis genuinely desire to contribute to the welfare of their people but are hindered by poor infrastructure within their compounds.
“How can a Mogaji provide drinkable water for his people when there is no access road for drilling trucks to enter the compound? The same thing applies to solar street lights and other community projects. These are the challenges we have been facing for many years,” he stated.
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The Ibadan chief further revealed that the road linking the Ejilude Alakoko Compound is already captured in the Ibadan Master Plan, expressing hope that the government will soon give attention to its construction for the benefit of the people and future development of the community.
“This road is already part of the Ibadan Master Plan. We believe government will remember our community and fulfill this important aspect of development because access roads remain the foundation of growth in every society,” he said.
He further noted that the absence of good roads discourages investors and business owners from moving into such communities, leaving many family houses in dilapidated condition and slowing down economic progress.
“Any place with good access roads will naturally attract people and businesses. Old mud houses will be rebuilt, and development will follow. Government must extend their good works to the grassroots communities and traditional family compounds,” he added.
The Ibadan chief also urged fellow Mogajis across Ibadanland to unite and collectively demand infrastructural development for their various compounds, emphasizing that Mogajis remain the closest traditional representatives to the grassroots people.
“We are the grassroots. We are closer to the people more than anyone else. It is time for all Ibadan Mogajis to stand up and ask for what rightfully belongs to our communities,” he declared.
Mogaji Ejilola concluded the interview with prayers for peace, growth, and sustainable development in Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
“May Almighty God bless Oyo State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
