By Arabambi Abayomi
“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.”
That timeless passage from Ecclesiastes comes to mind whenever political actors struggle to accept that leadership evolves with time. There is a season to lead, a season to build, and a season to allow others continue the journey. Unfortunately, former Ogun State governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel, appears unwilling to accept that political reality.
Rather than engaging constructively, Daniel and his loyalists have allegedly resorted to sponsoring coordinated media attacks against Governor Dapo Abiodun — a governor many residents believe has transformed Ogun State through visible infrastructure, economic expansion, and political stability.
Several recent articles attacking Governor Abiodun have circulated online, recycling allegations that have either been previously addressed or lack substantiated evidence. Supporters of the governor insist that the claims are politically motivated attempts to diminish the achievements of the current administration ahead of the 2027 political permutations.
What cannot be ignored, however, is the record of the Abiodun administration.
Under Governor Abiodun, Ogun State has witnessed significant growth in internally generated revenue, industrial expansion, and infrastructural development. The administration has also been credited with reducing political tension and promoting relative peace across the state.
Supporters further point to what they describe as one of the administration’s landmark achievements — the emergence of Gateway International Airport, Iperu, as an operational international departure point. On May 3, 2026, the airport reportedly airlifted hundreds of Hajj pilgrims directly to Saudi Arabia, marking the first international passenger operation from the facility.
To many residents, the development represents more than aviation progress; it symbolizes Ogun State’s growing relevance in commerce, logistics, and regional connectivity.
Critics of the governor have continued to revisit allegations surrounding local government allocations and claims of financial diversion. However, defenders of the administration maintain that the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), which includes local government chairmen and relevant stakeholders, supervises allocation processes collectively.
According to them, the state government actually intervened financially during periods when federal allocations were insufficient to meet salary obligations at the local government level.
The administration’s supporters also dismiss repeated references to decades-old legal controversies involving Governor Abiodun, arguing that the governor has consistently scaled constitutional and electoral scrutiny, including multiple legal challenges during his governorship contests.
Beyond politics, many residents argue that Ogun State’s ongoing road projects, expanding industrial corridors, and increased investor confidence reflect tangible governance outcomes rather than media narratives.
Observers note that the political disagreement appears rooted in the emerging succession dynamics within Ogun East Senatorial District. Governor Abiodun’s endorsement by several APC stakeholders as a preferred senatorial candidate has reportedly unsettled some established political interests within the district.
Nonetheless, political analysts believe the ultimate decision will rest with party delegates and the electorate, not media campaigns or sponsored commentaries.
While Senator Daniel remains a significant figure in Ogun politics with acknowledged contributions to the state’s development during his tenure, many believe political maturity demands recognition that leadership seasons evolve.
For supporters of Governor Abiodun, the debate is straightforward: performance should remain the basis for political judgment.
They argue that the people of Ogun State can see ongoing projects, expanding economic opportunities, and increased infrastructural activity across the state. In their view, these realities outweigh online attacks, recycled allegations, or politically charged commentaries.
As Ogun gradually moves toward the 2027 political season, one thing appears certain — the contest for influence within the state’s political structure is far from over. But in the end, voters and party stakeholders will determine whose vision best represents the future of Ogun State.
Dr. Arabambi Abayomi
Convener, Sustainability of Ogun State and Dapo Abiodun Legacy Beyond 2027
Thursday, May 7, 2026
