Ogun East Senator Gbenga Daniel has cautioned Governor Dapo Abiodun that certain lines should not be crossed in the administration of state projects, particularly the recently launched airport construction in Ogun State.
Speaking on TVC News’ “Beyond the Headlines” programme, Daniel – a former governor of the state – argued that the work being touted as a major achievement by the governor is, in reality, the result of decades of effort and personal sacrifice by previous administrations. He stressed that while the airport contract may appear straightforward, the groundwork that enables such projects is far more complex.
“The airport is the easy part – awarding the contract – but the money, the licences, the environmental assessments and land acquisition were all done long before,” Daniel said. He recounted the arduous process his government underwent, including multiple site visits, stakeholder engagements and negotiations with federal authorities to secure the necessary approvals. “Do you know how many presidents I had to sit with to get that licence?” he asked, implying that the current governor is benefiting from efforts he did not personally undertake.
Abiodun, who launched the airport project, replied that the governor’s concerns were misplaced. He warned Daniel that his political future was at risk, suggesting that “the young man who follows you everywhere will be the one to destroy your government.” The governor also referenced recent turbulence in neighboring Ekiti State, implying that political missteps can quickly derail an administration.
Both men agreed that the airport’s construction is a significant undertaking for Ogun State, but they diverged on who should receive credit. Daniel emphasized that his government “served the state meritoriously” and that any present comforts enjoyed by Abiodun are, in his view, built on the former administration’s sweat and sacrifice.
The exchange highlights an ongoing tension in Nigerian politics where successive leaders inherit projects and claim ownership, often sparking disputes over credit and accountability. As Ogun State moves forward with the airport, observers will watch how the controversy influences public perception of the governor’s performance and the legacy of the former administration.
The dialogue underscores the broader challenges of infrastructure development in the region, where political rivalries can intersect with the practicalities of project delivery. Future updates on the airport’s progress and any formal inquiries into its procurement process are expected as the state seeks to balance political narratives with the delivery of public goods.
