Oyo to maintain cordial relationship with Army – Ajimobi Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi has reiterated commitment to the provision of security to lives and property, just as he pledged the determination of his administration to maintain cordial relationship with the Nigerian Army.

The governor who made pledge while receiving the new General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Mechanized Division of the Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major-General Funsho Abejirin who paid him a courtesy visit in his office at the week-end, noted that peace was the foundation for meaningful development. The governor's Special Adviser on Media, Dr Festus Adedayo said in a statement in Ibadan on Monday that the governor commended the men and officers of the Nigerian Army for their support in the maintenance of peace in the state.

``We have established a good working relationship with the Nigerian Army based on our determination to ensure that the foundation of our administration of development which is security of lives and property is maintained.

``The Nigerian Army is indeed a major partner in this regard. It has continued to play a leading role in the peace and tranquillity we are enjoying today in Oyo State,’’ the governor said.

He assured the GOC that his government would not relent in its efforts at providing adequate logistics to the Division for its smooth operation in the area of security of lives and property.

Earlier, the GOC, Major-Gen. Abejirin commended Governor Ajimobi for providing necessary support for the army operations in the state.

He assured the governor of the readiness of his Division to continue to participate fully in the maintenance of peace through the state security outfit code-named Operation burst.