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Tag: Dapo Abiodun

  • Abiodun set to award 11 road projects

    Abiodun set to award 11 road projects

    • •Governor inaugurates Akute-Ajuwon-Alagbole Road

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun yesterday spoke of plans to award 11 road projects as part of efforts to deepen economic development across the state.

    He dropped the hint at the inauguration of the rebuilt Akute-Ajuwon-Alagbole Road in Ifo Local Government.

    Abiodun said the new roads, when redeveloped, would stimulate socio-economic activities in the benefitting communities.

    The governor described the completion of Akute-Ajuwon-Alagbole Road as a transformative milestone for Ifo Local Government and the state.

    He said the project was in response to the long-standing yearnings of residents, adding that his administration had earlier rehabilitated and rebuilt several adjoining roads in the axis, including Alhaji Kosoko Road (which links Denro–Ishasi–Akute), Segun Osoba Road, Toyin Street and Yakoyo–Alagbole Road.

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    “We also focused on the Hercules–Oke Aro–Giwa Road. That road was in terrible condition, but by the grace of God, it is now 100 per cent completed. I will be back soon to inaugurate it,” the governor said.

    He explained that the rebuilding of Akute–Ajuwon–Alagbole Road formed part of a broader network linking several communities.

    “We reconstructed Akute–Ajuwon–Alagbole axis and Alagbole–Akute stretch, which connects to Denro–Ishashi. Next, we will take on Akute–Lanbe–Oke Aro–Agbado–Ijoko–Sango roads. The Akute–Sango corridor is a 17-kilometre dual carriageway started by my predecessor but abandoned, rendering it impassable.

    “We have divided it into two phases. The first phase, covering 9.7 kilometres up to Agbado Train Station and about 700 metres beyond, is currently under reconstruction. The second phase, which will extend to Sango, will be awarded soon,” Abiodun said.

    He noted that the two roads inaugurated at the event were the 1.5-kilometre Alagbole–Ajuwon Road and the 4.5-kilometre Akute–Ajuwon Road.

    “Alagbole–Akute Road should be ready in about two to three weeks. I will return to inaugurate this alongside Hercules Road, hopefully before the new year,” he added.

    Governor Abiodun said the road projects in Ifo II were part of a wider infrastructure drive covering Ifo I and II in Ogun Central Senatorial District. Other completed or ongoing roads in the district, he said, include Sango–Ijoko–Agbado Road, Adesan Road in Obafemi Owode, Magboro–Makogi Road, Elega–Isaje–Miliki–Bode–Olude Extension, Oke–Lantoro–Yidi Lane and Sango–Abeokuta Road.

     The governor berated previous administrations for neglecting the area despite its economic significance, stressing that his government’s intervention was aimed at compensating residents for years of abandonment.

    He said the project formed part of his administration’s Urban Renewal Programme, which cut across the ISEYA mantra, encompassing roads, hospitals, education, security, and human capital development.

    Abiodun expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting governors in transforming Nigeria into “a construction site,” and also thanked the people of Ifo for their patience and cooperation throughout the project.

    The member representing Ifo II State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Fola Salami, lamented that past administrations had neglected the area, saying the project represented the true dividends of democracy.

    The Chairman of Ifo Local Government, Mr. Lekan Kusimo, said residents and business owners suffered for over two decades due to the deplorable state of the roads. He expressed joy that the situation had finally been reversed.

    On behalf of the community, Alhaji Bashiru Akande thanked the governor for fulfilling his promise, while the Odofin of Isheri, Oba Sulaimon Bamgbade, lauded the government for delivering the road project at a most critical time.

    Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ade Akinsanya, said the completion of the road would bring huge relief to commuters and revive business activities in the corridor.

    He said the government was making steady progress on other ongoing road projects and urged residents to take ownership of the new road by keeping it clean and avoiding the dumping of refuse into the drainage channels.

  • Abiodun: Ibara GRA project on course

    Abiodun: Ibara GRA project on course

    The urban regeneration scheme of the Governor Dapo Abiodun administration in Ogun State is progressing, with the completion of over 150 houses out of more than 200 planned for Ibara Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Abeokuta, the state capital.

    Speaking after inspecting the houses, Governor Abiodun said his administration would ensure Abeokuta had modern houses that befitted its status as the state capital.

    Abiodun, who described the former condition of the GRA as an eyesore, noted that the dilapidated structures, apart from serving as a haven for criminals, were occupied illegally by people who made use of the buildings as their personal properties.

    He said: “Sometime in March, having held different town hall meetings and consultations with those that were living here, most of whom were illegal inhabitants—some as a matter of fact were illegal and turned themselves into landlords, renting out spaces to people illegally.

    “But, nonetheless, because it was not our desire to make people homeless, we discussed with them, we agreed on different terms and we managed to do what previous administrations either did not envision or have the foresight to do, or did not have the political will to achieve.

    “We were able to convince people that the future is here and now and Ogun State capital cannot be looking like what it was looking like, particularly the highbrow area called the GRA in Abeokuta. So in March, we began to clean up this place, and began to demolish and implement the regeneration scheme.

    “In all, we have what we planned, about 213 to 220 houses that are earmarked to be built here, either directly by the state government, Ministry of Housing, or by allocation to others to build in line with stipulated designs.

    “To date, we have about 150 houses already built, others at different stages of completion and this is just the beginning.”

    He said similar regeneration project would be carried out in other GRAs across the state to provide modern houses for the people of the state.

    Read Also: ‘Save us from land grabbers, thugs, residents beg Governor Abiodun

    “Let me assure you, this level of development is not situated just in Ogun Central. As we are building and generating in Ogun Central and Abeokuta, we’ve done the same in Yewa, we have affordable housing units in Ilaro.

    “Kobape has almost 600 houses and still counting. In Sagamu, we have other affordable housing scheme in Sagamu and Iperu of course, leading to the airport and in Ijebu-Ode,” he added.

    He stated that his administration would not take its eyes off its set goals by being distracted by frustrated individuals, noting that while they had the opportunity, they failed to do exactly what his government is doing due to lack of foresight or not understanding what was required of them.

    “We are doing what we promised the people of Ogun State that entrusted their mandate to us and to them we remain accountable. Not to the few faceless Facebook, faceless Twitter sponsored media; we are not accountable to those few people.

    “I am throwing a challenge to my detractors and opponents, I stand to be corrected, if we have not constructed more roads in six years than anybody else has constructed in a 16 year period, I think that is enough to reply those that are sponsoring faceless videos and negative narratives on social media,” he concluded.

  • ‘Save us from land grabbers, thugs, residents beg Governor Abiodun

    ‘Save us from land grabbers, thugs, residents beg Governor Abiodun

    Residents of Ijere Worugudu in Obafemi Owode Local Government area of Ogun State have appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to rescue them from the illegal activities of land grabbers and thugs.

    Members of the community in a Save Our Soul (SOS) message noted that the culprits claimed they are executing a court judgment on behalf of one Akinyemi Ogundimu family.

    According to residents, the alleged land grabbers said the court gave them the necessary documents to act.

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    They noted that the documents in question trace back to Suit No. AB/44/2009, decided on April 15, 2015, by Justice O.O. Majekodunmi supporting the Ogundimu family’s ownership of land, but only in specific areas including, Ijere Onigbedu, Orile Egun, Agelete and Akiegun.

    “On page 20 of the judgment, the court clearly excluded Ijere Worugudu and Orile Ijere from that ownership. Yet, the men have used the ruling as a license for land grabbing, spreading terror among families who have tilled these lands for generations. It is heartbreaking.  They’ve turned our land into a battlefield. We can’t farm. We can’t sleep. They move around with weapons, acting like government officials,” a youth leader said.

  • Ogun’s messy infrastructure under Dapo Abiodun

    Ogun’s messy infrastructure under Dapo Abiodun

    With the decrepit state of infrastructure and accompanying poverty in most states across the country, one wonders what their governors are doing with the increasingly bogus monthly allocations they receive under the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    Equally disturbing is whether members of the executive councils of such states tell their governors the empirical truth at such once-a-week meetings the facts about the genuine well-being of their jurisdictions. This is without discounting the fact that most governors are despots in democratic garb, merely deploying their executive councils as mere rubber stamps to drive their selfish policies/projects.

    The legislatures of states where infrastructural neglect are rampant may have been decapitated by politics of compromise that is antithetical to the discharge of their oversight responsibilities. Yet, for the ongoing executive rascality and greed that is undeservingly giving the federal government a bad name, a legislature imbued with audacious instinct is very necessary to whip a derelict executive arm of government to order.

    All efforts must now be deployed to ensure that currently pocketed legislatures should be alive to their responsibilities. This is more important because executive councils’ members, largely appointed by governors, operate at such governors’ mercy. Herein lies the dilemma against real development at this President Bola Tinubu’s era of surplus allocations to states with no meaningful development to show for it in the lives of states’ inhabitants.

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    Now that President Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the national chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, have all recently enjoined Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability in the spendings of huge federal allocations from their governors and local councils’ chairmen, the need for this piece becomes necessary.

    And the klieg-light this week is being beamed on the poor condition of especially roads infrastructure in Ogun state. The condemnable state of roads in the ‘Gateway State’ to the nation is unexplainable in view of the nonchalant and epileptic approach of Governor Dapo Abiodun to the general infrastructural development of the state he was elected to govern.

    Governor Abiodun has unexpectedly been a big disappointment in governance issues.  He’s perhaps the first billionaire from the business world to govern Ogun State, but his governance reflexes are not something that the Dangotes and Otedolas of this world should be proud of. This is because the Ogun State governor belongs to their nouveau riche class. And when the names of purportedly wealthy Nigerians in business are to be compiled, Abiodun’s name will prominently feature. Thanks to his reported investments in the oil and gas and real estate sectors. The man has undeniably done well in life for himself but not for Ogun state.

    Having created a niche for himself in the business world, he, like many others like him, took a detour into politics, and this seems to have paid off for him. Even though he’s far from becoming a remarkable politician, he has deployed his wealth to corner a position for himself in the money-infested politics of this country where getting an elective office depends not on what you have upstairs but largely in how much war-chest you possess or you can, by proxy, put on the table.

    Today, Abiodun is not just the governor of Ogun State but also a second term helmsman that looks forward to completing his two terms of eight years in 2027 with discerning eyes on the senatorial seat of Ogun East as his post governorship retirement benefit.

    Abiodun served a first term with insignificant momentum and he’s now in his lackluster second term cum over six years in office. It won’t be unfair to ask governor Abiodun whether he has acquitted himself well in office. This is particularly so with the recurring social media complaints by Ogun State inhabitants regarding mostly road infrastructure neglect. There’s need to draw attention to his unpardonable dereliction of duty; and to let him know that he should pay less attention to politicking and provide good outliving legacy in his remaining less than two years in office.

    The people’s cries over the empirically debilitating state of infrastructural problems that the state has come to be notoriously known for in barely over six years of Abiodun’s docile misrule is palpable. It remains to be seen how the governor is going to convince his people, going forward, that he truly possesses the capacity and sincerity of purpose to take the state out of its official-inflicted infrastructural nightmare.

    In over six years of Abiodun’s governance of the rock-city state, nothing points in the direction of a man of visionary mission being on the saddle at Oke-Mosan. Yours sincerely, for instance, has witnessed the pathetic state of road infrastructure, especially in the state capital of Abeokuta. This clearly shows the governor as being only rich but devoid of requisite governance or public service skills. His supposed private sector success has not in any way positively impacted Ogun state.

    Many bystanders argue that a governor who knows his onions should have been strategic in sustaining infrastructural balancing in the state. Such a governor needs to prioritize projects sitting across the three senatorial districts of Ogun Central; Ogun East and Ogun West.

    A proviso here is that doing this should not be at the detriment of Ogun Central that doubles as the state capital and, as such, should benefit more from developmental initiatives of any governor in the state. Ogun Central serves as the melting point of people of diverse tribes, ethnicities, and even nationalities. For these reasons and more, the need for the governor’s attention for the area is, however, not a favour but a necessity.

    The decrepit state of roads in the state capital underscores the governor’s lack of understanding of the hardships daily encountered by investors, commuters, and vehicles’ owners in the state. This clearly amplifies his contempt for the feelings of inhabitants and investors in the state.

    Dapo Abiodun’s special consultant on Islamic affairs and Wakeel of Muslims in Ogun, Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Iskeel Lawal, who goes by the sobriquet ‘Sugar’ captures Abiodun’s misplacement of priority and shoddy approach to governance when at a recent social media-gone-viral public function where he beckoned on the governor he’s serving: “Mr Governor, please if people of Iperu-Remo fly in aero planes, kindly provide good roads in Abeokuta for our people to also drive their vehicles.”  No better satirical observation can better capture Abiodun’s ineptitude than this.

    The governor’s lame excuse that some of the roads are owned by the federal government is reactionary. Are the people plying the roads owned by the federal government? Again, what on earth is his excuse for abandoning other decrepit roads owned by the state government? Sango-Ota/Agbara is an industrial revenue generating area for the state; Abiodun should come to the public and tell us why he has completely left the roads in that axis in an unmotorable state. When his government failed, Covenant University owners are speculated to be constructing the road leading to the institution.

    From the border town of Lagos/Ogun in Ajegunle, to Sango-Ota area, to Itori, Ifo, Ijoko, Akute and Papalanto, the pathetically bad state of the roads could not have been that of a state governed by a visionary governor.

    Upon entering Abeokuta, the welcoming bad roads from Psychiatric hospital straight to Ita-Oshin, Olomore, Brewery, Lafenwa to Rounda, Enugada, Ago-Ika, Ajita’adun, Saje, Mokola to other areas daily inflict avoidable hardships on the inhabitants of the gateway state.

    All these vital roads were left undone, but the governor has the funds to build an airport in Iperu Remo that may soon be a wasteful, unprofitable project for lack of envisaged patronage. If he had obtained a loan to finance a cargo port abandoned by Otunba Gbenga Daniel and redesigned as a full-fledged airport, it is nothing but a misplaced priority. Such a loan should have been used to develop economically strategic roads begging for government’s attention in Abeokuta, Sango-Ota/Akute axis including Agbado side of Ogun, Ijoko, Itele areas of the state.

    Not even Governor Abiodun can deny that the main industrial hubs of the state are Sango-Ota, Abeokuta, and the Lagos/Ibadan express road axis bordering Lagos state. Rather than complete the Ijoko, Akute, Sango-Ota and other roads with industrial cum economic benefits to investors and commuters in the state, Abiodun is spending the state’s money on an elephant airport once abandoned project that the people will not use. Where’s the vision in the governor’s decision? Yet, Ogun workers are not being paid the minimum wage despite the huge allowance increase that the Tinubu government pays the state every month.

    Dapo Abiodun is so far obviously not a good ambassador of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). One  salient platform confirmed this fact. STATISENSE, a reputable policy pressure group, in its separately conducted two consecutive years’ reports for Y2024 and Y2025, affirmed Ogun State under Abiodun as toping the chart of states with the worst roads in the country.

    The reports are readily available on the internet for inquisitive minds, and this is a gory public relations for a governor who claimed to have purportedly run a successful business before seeking election and reelection. With governors like Abiodun, the ruling APC, in any clean election, faces a Herculean task in 2027, except a sensible intervention occurs.

    Yours sincerely asks: Where are the unbiased and uncompromised elders of the ‘Gateway State’ because their courageously unrelenting voices of wisdom and admonition for Abiodun are more important now to save Ogun state from avoidable infrastructural ruins? Let those who have ears and eyes and are perceptive quickly intervene to save Abiodun’s governed state from socio-political tsunami.

    • Sanusi, former Managing Director, Lagos State Signage & Advertisement Agency, is currently the managing partner of AMS RELIABLE SOLICITORS.

  • Abiodun to residents: let’s build state that works

    Abiodun to residents: let’s build state that works

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance anchored on citizens’ participation, transparency and accountability.

    He said consulting widely with the people before presenting the state budget remained a defining feature of his government.

    Abiodun made this known during the Town Hall Meeting for the Egba Division, held as part of the preparations for the 2026 Budget.

    He urged residents and stakeholders to continue partnering with government in building “a state that works for everyone.”

    Represented by the Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okuboyejo, the governor said his administration had over the years implemented strategic public financial management reforms aligned with international best practices, ensuring fiscal discipline and effective service delivery.

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    According to him, the ISEYA Development Agenda continues to guide the administration’s policy direction, resulting in remarkable progress across critical sectors, including infrastructure, health care, housing, education, agriculture, security and youth empowerment.

    “In the last 12 months, our administration has recorded notable achievements made possible through enhanced fiscal discipline, transparency and efficiency, which have collectively driven socio-economic progress and laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth,” the governor said.

    Abiodun listed ongoing road construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation projects across the state—including the Egba Division—as part of efforts to improve connectivity and boost economic activities.

    In the health sector, he highlighted the renovation and equipping of primary health care facilities, the installation of solar power systems, and the rollout of the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme to expand access to quality healthcare.

    The governor also mentioned the installation of solar streetlights and deployment of transformers to improve electricity supply, as well as the completion of affordable housing projects such as the Olumo Residential Court Apartments and the Ibara GRA Regeneration Project (Phase I).

    On security, he disclosed that more Amotekun operatives have been recruited to strengthen community surveillance and crime prevention, while in education, the government has rehabilitated science laboratories, renovated technical colleges, and trained STEM teachers to enhance learning outcomes.

    Governor Abiodun noted that the state’s successful hosting of the 2024 Gateway Games reinforced Ogun’s reputation as a hub for sporting excellence and cultural unity.

    “We renovated and modernised all our sporting facilities to international standards, culminating in the inauguration of MKO Abiola Sports Arena, now a premier venue for continental and regional competitions,” he said.

    He added that Ogun State recently hosted the Confederation of African Athletics U18/U20 Championships and continues to host CAF competitions at the Arena, solidifying its status as a trusted venue for international sporting events.

    On job creation, the governor said the administration had inaugurated Ogun Job Centre and Work Hub at the Government Science and Technical College, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta — a one-stop centre for career guidance, entrepreneurial support, and employment opportunities.

    In the agricultural sector, Abiodun said the state had procured modern farm machinery, rehabilitated eight farm settlements, and upgraded the Ogun State Farmers Information Management System (OGFIMS) to a digital platform that enhances market access and supports farmers’ participation in government programmes.

    He also revealed plans to transform rural markets such as the Kila Market in Odeda into modern agro-logistics centres aimed at strengthening value chains, improving storage, and reducing post-harvest losses.

    As preparations continue for the 2026 Budget, Abiodun said his administration would focus on empowering young people, supporting small businesses, and strengthening social protection systems for vulnerable citizens.

    The governor emphasised that the 2026 Budget would consolidate gains in infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and job creation, reflecting citizens’ priorities gathered during the town hall sessions.

    Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, commended the governor’s efforts in infrastructure development but urged the state government to engage the federal authorities on the rehabilitation of federal roads within the state.

    Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, described the Town Hall Meetings as a vital pillar of participatory governance, transparency, and accountability, saying the initiative underscored the government’s belief that “meaningful progress begins with the people.”

  • When Iperu paused for Mama Abiodun

    When Iperu paused for Mama Abiodun

    By ‘Dare Odufowokan

    Last Wednesday, the ancient town of Iperu-Remo in Ikenne Local Government Area (LGA) of Remo Federal Constituency in Ogun State, paused for hours, soaked in glitz and glamour, as Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, his siblings and the entire Abiodun family hosted the 90th birthday celebration of their jewel of a mother, Chief Mrs. Victoria Olaitan Abiodun, in grand style.

    From the hallowed hall of St. James Anglican Church, Iperu, where dignitaries from across the world converged for a commemoration service in celebration of Mama Abiodun’s life of service and devotion, to the streets of Iperu, where the jubilant people of Remoland, across all social and economic divides, celebrated Mama Victoria Olaitan Abiodun’s birthday as a remarkable milestone, and all the way to the grand reception in honour of the celebrant, held within the alluring confines of a tastefully constructed marque on the premises of the Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu-Remo, prayers, joy, music, and heartfelt tributes honouring a deserving matriarch, filled the air.

    Truth be told, the 90th birthday events of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s mother were heartwarming celebrations of her life and legacy. Family, friends, and loved ones gathered to rejoice over a life that has touched numerous others for good. The day teed off at the beautiful and historic St. James Anglican Church with stunning stained-glass windows, elegant chandeliers, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The wooden pews showed as if freshly polished, and the altar was decorated with a special 90th birthday arrangement. All in honour of a devoted and revered member of the congregation, Mama Victoria Olaitan.

    Sitting pretty and radiating joy, the ninety-year-old birthday-girl looked around her to see a church hall filled to the brim and pouring out, into the expansive compound and beyond. Her expressions were those of happiness and fulfilment. Adorned beautifully in sparkling white iro and buba, with glittering royal blue gele and ipele, and stable blue shoes to match, mama caught the picture of the day’s special guest of honour.

    Behind her and her children with their immediate families, family members, friends, guests and church members, all dressed in the eye-catching green and orange aso ebi, gather to celebrate this milestone birthday. The congregation sang hymns and songs of praise, accompanied by the church choir. The music – uplifting and celebratory, and the mood was simply joyous. The choir sang, the congregation danced, and the celebrant beamed with appreciative smiles at dignitaries from across the country, including a strong delegation from the presidency that had Vice President Kashim Shettima; Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume; Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and others. Their presence showed how important the event was to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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    Also present were former President Olusegun Obasanjo; the incumbent Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke; Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji; Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma; Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele; Senator Olamilekan Solomon, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Senator Adams Oshiomhole; former governors Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Olusegun Mimiko, James Ibori, Ibikunle Amosun, Kayode Fayemi, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, Senator Lekan Mustapha, Senator Dave Umahi and numerous other members of the National Assembly.

    Corporate Nigeria also poured into Iperu to celebrate Mama Abiodun, as business giants like Dr Deji Adeleke, Sayuu Dantata, Chief Toyin Okeowo, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, Dr Zacheus Adedeji, Dr Tunde Lemo, Aig-Imoukhuede Aigboje, led numerous other giant players to the birthday celebration.

    An impressive array of traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi; Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; Olowu of Owu, Oba Prof Adelola Matemilola; Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afolabi; Eleposo of Eposo-Remo, Oba Mukaila Olabinjo; Elegushi of Ikate, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi; Oniru of Iru land, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan; Olorogun Sunny Kuku, Ogbeni Oja and Adele Awujale of Ijebuland, among scores of other monarchs, regaled the gathering with royalty.

    From the host state, the attendance was simply huge. Everybody who mattered was joyously present. Engineer Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Deputy Governor; Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly; Chief Judge of the state, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu; Mr Tokunbo Talabi, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG); Dr Oluwatoyin Taiwo, the Chief of Staff; Mr Dapo Okubadejo, Chief Economic Adviser and Finance Commissioner; and Chief Yemi Sanusi, Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), led all other state and ruling party functionaries to Iperu.

    In his sermon during the church service, the Bishop of Remo Anglican Diocese, Most Reverend Olusina Fape, who described the celebrant as a devoted and committed Christian who had done a lot in the vineyard of God, while speaking on the theme, ‘The grateful heart receives more blessings from God,’ urged the celebrant to continue her life of service to God. Reading from Luke Chapter 1, verse 46 to 49, he likened Mama Abiodun’s life to that of Holy Mary, who gave birth to Jesus, as Prince Dapo Abiodun has raised the name of the family as the performing governor of Ogun State.

    The clergyman used the opportunity to eulogise Governor Abiodun for the massive infrastructural development in the state, adding that the construction of the Gateway International Airport at Iperu-Remo is a big relief, not just for Ogun state but the entire southwest geo-political zone.

  • When Dapo Abiodun celebrated mum at 90

    When Dapo Abiodun celebrated mum at 90

    The joy of every parent lies in witnessing their children achieve greatness, a sentiment beautifully exemplified by Mrs. Victoria Olaitan Abiodun, who recently celebrated her momentous 90th birthday, gracefully entering the esteemed ranks of nonagenarians. In a country like Nigeria, where life expectancy has tragically plummeted below 54 years, the celebration of such a milestone is truly extraordinary and worthy of grand festivities.

    To honor this remarkable occasion, her eldest son, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, spared no expense, rallying significant resources to ensure that the birthday celebration was both memorable and opulent. It became a veritable gathering of dignitaries, bringing together an impressive array of influential figures from across the nation, including the political elite, business magnates, and members of the billionaire class.

    The festivities began with a heartfelt church service at St. James Anglican Church in Iperu Remo, where a congregation of royals and leading political figures joined to pay tribute to the celebrant. Following the service, attendees were directed to a tastefully constructed marquee at the Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School in Iperu, which had been meticulously secured and coordinated to accommodate the sizeable crowd.

    Hosted by renowned entertainers Gbenga Adeyinka and Tee A, the event featured the captivating musical talents of Juju Maestro, King Sunny Ade, who kept the audience enthralled with his enchanting performances. Guests were treated to an extravagant spread of gourmet meals and an abundant selection of fine drinks, ensuring that everyone felt like royalty throughout the celebration.

    Despite her advanced age, the celebrant exuded vitality, moving gracefully and joyfully engaging with her family and guests. A touching goodwill message from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was conveyed via a video presentation, wherein she extended her blessings to the Abiodun family and offered prayers for Mrs. Abiodun’s continued health and happiness.

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    Messages of goodwill were also shared by esteemed figures such as Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; and President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima. Each expressed heartfelt congratulations and participated in the toast for the birthday cake cutting ceremony.

    The event saw a diverse gathering of high-profile attendees, including Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Chief of Staff to the President, Art. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and his wife Salamatu, as well as state governors like Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, and AbdulRahman Abdulrasaq of Kwara, among others.

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, alongside former governors and political heavyweights such as Aremo Olusegun Osoba and James Ibori, also graced the occasion. Traditional leaders, notably the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afolabi; Elegushi of Ikate, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi; and Oniru of Iru land, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan, added a regal touch to the gathering.

    Notable business figures, including Dr. Deji Adeleke, Sayuu Dantata, and Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, alongside federal and state assembly members, joined the festive spirit, solidifying this celebration as a significant event within both the social and political fabric of the country.

  • Dapo Abiodun impressive work rate

    Dapo Abiodun impressive work rate

    Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Executive Governor of Ogun State, has navigated a tumultuous political landscape on his journey to govern. Much like the biblical David, he has faced numerous challenges and adversaries, ultimately emerging victorious, particularly during his re-election campaign. Demonstrating unwavering resilience akin to that of a wounded lion, Abiodun’s determination and tenacity were rewarded as providence smiled upon him, fulfilling his ambition for a second term. Today, he celebrates his accomplishments; his heart swells with gratitude, and he dances with the joy reminiscent of David’s biblical celebrations.

    Equipped with a strong background as a seasoned businessman and an oil and gas mogul, Abiodun entered the murky waters of politics with an entrepreneurial mindset. This background has been instrumental in transforming Ogun State into a more attractive investment hub, positioning it as the nation’s industrial heartland. His administration’s focus on creating an environment conducive to business has drawn millions of investors, facilitating job creation and enabling the government to generate substantial income from these investments.

    Under Governor Abiodun’s leadership, Ogun State has experienced remarkable growth, marked by significant infrastructural advancements across various sectors, including roads, education, agriculture, industrialization, security, job creation, housing development, and women empowerment. His commitment to public service extends to the welfare of civil servants, ensuring that they are supported and motivated. Abiodun’s tireless efforts have made Ogun State a beacon of prosperity, establishing it as a safe haven for both residents and investors alike.

    Unlike many of his gubernatorial peers who view a second term as an opportunity to coast on their previous successes, Abiodun remains deeply committed to furthering Ogun State’s development.

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    Within just two years of his second tenure, he has surpassed expectations and set a new benchmark for achievement. His initiatives have not only transformed the state but have also garnered praise from pundits who note his exceptional performance against the backdrop of his first term.

    Abiodun’s strategic vision to position Ogun as the preferred destination for investors is complemented by policies aimed at streamlining operations. The “ease of doing business” initiative has received accolades from manufacturers, who appreciate the incentives and expedited approvals that facilitate their ventures. One of the highlights of his tenure is the recent inauguration of the Ogun Agro Cargo Airport, which offers a direct flight route to Abuja via ValueJet. This development is poised to be a game-changer, significantly reducing travel time and improving accessibility for residents and businesses.

    As Governor Abiodun continues to deliver on his promises, he effectively silences critics and skeptics alike by demonstrating the tangible benefits of his governance. The dividends of democracy are being realized under his stewardship, and as he strides confidently forward, there is growing consensus that he may indeed be one of the most impactful governors in Ogun State’s history.

  • Dapo Abiodun and his 1,200 political assistants

    Dapo Abiodun and his 1,200 political assistants

    • By Semiu Okanlawon

    Let me start by asking: Do you know why Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State appointed 1,200 political assistants? I know many are angry with DA as he is fondly called, after announcing the appointment of 1,200 political assistants last week.

    One thousand, two hundred political assistants! To do what?

    And this coming after crossing into the second half of his second term?

    In a state which – though witnessing a rapid influx of new factories that should guarantee future industrial fortunes – suffers acute infrastructural deficit, citizens in and out of the state are bound to demand for the correctness of such appointments.

    Of course, the most preferred interpretation for such action is to conclude that Abiodun sought to, in the popular language, find “jobs for the boys” and keep them tightly under his armpit.

    But wait a bit! Is it really strange in this part of our world to see politicians dash out jobs in order to expand their political base and solidify their holds on the system?

    In the same Ogun and under the watch of Governor Abiodun, a councillor has appointed eight aides including a chief of staff. A councillor o!

    Yes; Oluwasegun Ayebusiwa, a councillor in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, has, apart from his chief of staff, gone ahead to name seven others in the categories of personal assistants, senior special assistants, special assistants, head of security among others.

    And are all these “jobs for the boys” supposed to be based on Ayebusola’s monthly salary or to be driven into the payroll system of the local government area?

    Meanwhile, my findings reveal that in Ogun, the monthly salary of a councillor is between N215,000 and N220,000.

    If you think this is only in Ogun State, take a trip to Kaduna State where a councillor representing Kinkiba Ward in Soba Local Government Area of the state, Sunusi Hashim, also appointed 18 special advisers, according to him “to strengthen his grassroots administration.”

    It is spreading fast! In Gombe State, Yahaya Bajoga, the councillor representing Bajoga East in Funakaye Local Government Area also named 18 personal aides including a principal private secretary, 12 special assistants, and five personal assistants.

    Don’t forget that last year, even if his figure was not as alarmingly bogus as that of the Ogun State governor, his Oyo State counterpart, Seyi Makinde, had also appointed over 160 supervisory councillors in the 33 local government areas of the state. His reason was also to accelerate the pace of development in the state.

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    Coming back to Abiodun; what would the Remo prince do in the face of the gargantuan political onslaught he appears to be facing in the hands of the senator who transferred his legislative service from Lagos West Senatorial District to Ogun West Senatorial District and now has his eyes riveted on the Oke-Mosan Government House come May 29, 2027?

    How many of the people throwing darts at Abiodun understand the silent ‘war’ the governor is waging to be able to stand in control of who succeeds him and even remain politically relevant after his exit from his current seat in 2027?

    When a senator is practically pulling the rugs off the feet of a sitting governor, dolling out electricity transformers to every nook and crannies of the state; sending hundreds on pilgrimages to Mecca and Jerusalem, facilitating construction of roads, you can expect such a governor to be upset and in search of how to tame a ‘rampaging’ aspirant whose supporters now say only God can stop.

    In order words, the 1,200 assistants (forget about whatever they call their job descriptions if at all there is any in their appointment letters) are to now help DA turn the table against his tormentor-in-chief.

    If you are in doubt of how much pressure Senator Adeola Solomon Olamilekan popularly called Yayi has brought on Abiodun, this writer listened to a radio presenter two weeks ago where he questioned the governor over the glaring infrastructure headaches in many parts of Ogun such as Ifo, Ijebu Ode, Ibafo, Mowe, Ota, Agbara, Ado-Odo and others in the face of many roads and electrification projects that are carrying the names of Yayi as its sponsor.

    Yayi, from whatever sources he has brought about his heavy investments in Ogun politics, has further exposed why Nigerians need to question this brand of democracy where those elected to make laws have gradually assumed executive duties and now give those elected for executive positions runs for their money.

    I have interacted with a good number of stakeholders in Ogun. It does look like Yayi is the only name on their lips. But he doesn’t appear to be the candidate Abiodun prefers.

    There is a good population of those who believe that the Yewa axis of the state should produce the next governor. That is where Yayi claims to be his root. But while Abiodun is said to be disposed to a Yewa governor after him, it is not Yayi that he wants. As a matter of fact, I have been reliably told that Abiodun would rather allow another part of the state to produce his successor should the people of Yewa insist on having Yayi as their candidate.

    Of course, the journey to 2027 in Ogun promises to be tense, suspenseful and brutal.

    But Yayi, as formidable a headache as he is to the Ogun governor, is not the only political nightmare he suffers. Former governor, Gbenga Daniel also poses another danger to whatever post-office ambition Abiodun is nursing. And there is no other ambition other than to proceed to the senate from the Ogun East Senatorial District which OGD currently represents.

    It is said that there is no other factor behind the entire fuss about OGD’s properties and other matters for which both Abiodun and Daniel have been at each other’s throats for more than a year.

    Put together, the governor seems to now face the same battle his predecessor, Ibikunle Amosun faced in the twilight of his administration when he sought, in vain, to install a successor but failed woefully with the inevitable emergence of Abiodun. It now appears that just as Abiodun was the nemesis of Amosun, Yayi, at least for now, seems to be the nemesis confronting Abiodun. Abiodun’s 1,200 special assistants, without mincing words, are part of the tools required to fight the battle ahead.

    But then, some pertinent questions come up. How do you accommodate these new political appointees into the payroll of the state without creating a shock?

    With Nigeria’s acute shortage in medical personnel and teachers in public schools and Ogun having its fair share of that, 1,200 political advisers appear way off the mark of decency if the governor were to be sensitive to the real needs of his people.

    Imagine what difference the recruitment of just 500 medical personnel would make to the health sector Ogun?

    By the last count, the Nigerian Medical Association had said that the doctor-patient ratio in the state stood at one doctor to 6,400 patients, a far cry from the recommendation by the World Health Organisation (WHO). In the same vein, the Ogun State Teaching Service Commission had to recruit 1,200 intern teachers to bridge the teaching personnel gaps in the state with a promise to recruit 2,000 teachers in this year.

    At a time when the state battles with such human capital requirements in critical sectors such as health and education, employing 1,200 assistants for the purpose of politics appears misplaced. This is not to speak of other areas of the state’s needs where personnel might be lacking.

    But then, politics takes precedence over every other thing. The survival of political warlords is more of a priority than the wellbeing of the man on the street.

    • Okanlawon, media and communication professional can be reached on sokanlawon67@gmail.com.
  • Ogun gets approval to establish Court of Appeal, says Abiodun

    Ogun gets approval to establish Court of Appeal, says Abiodun

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has revealed that the Federal Government has approved the establishment of the Court of Appeal in Abeokuta, the capital.

    Prince Abiodun made the revelation at a special church thanksgiving to mark the 2025/2026 legal year, held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta.

    He said the establishment of the appellate court would bring justice closer, ensure quick dispensation and help take the load off the Ibadan Division.

    He said: “We have finally received the formal approval for the establishment of the Ogun State division of the Federal Court of Appeal in Abeokuta.

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    “This is indeed a landmark achievement of an initiative proudly and aggressively championed by our administration to bring justice closer to our people and to ease the heavy caseload currently on the Ibadan division.

    “As a government, we recognise that justice is the foundation of every prosperous society, and we appreciate the fact that Ogun State judiciary has not only maintained its independence, but has also taken commendable strides towards improving access to justice, reducing case backlogs and embracing reforms.”

    The governor said justice could not thrive without integrity, impartiality and courage, admonishing the judicial officers to renew their dedication to a system where the scales of justice remained balanced, the most vulnerable voices heard, and where it provided an opportunity for every man, woman and child to be protected by the law.

    Acknowledging that a strong, independent and upright judiciary provides a pathway to good governance, economic development and social stability, Governor Abiodun said as a responsive and responsible administration, it appreciated the place of the judiciary in entrenching the ideals and practices of democracy.

    “Our administration will continue to provide the necessary support and resources to enhance judicial efficiency and uphold the integrity of the legal system in our dear state.

    “We will continue to prioritise the welfare and accommodation of judicial officers by making adequate housing arrangements and providing other essential support for our judges and other judicial workers, who may be posted to serve in Ogun State division of the Court of Appeal,” he said.

    He lauded the state Chief Judge for repositioning the judiciary through impactful reforms and the judicial officers for maintaining the state’s position as the beacon of the legal profession in the country.

    In a sermon, the Bishop of Ijebuland South/West Diocese, the Rt. Rev’d Babatunde Ogunbanwo, described the judiciary as the most powerful arm of government that gives or takes life, dethrones or enthrones kings, as well as sacks elected officers or brings those who lost elections to power.

    He urged judges to always act justly by being fair to all manners of people, irrespective of their social or economic status, noting that society will only thrive when justice reigns.

    The clergyman reminded judicial officers about the place of mercy while dispensing justice, saying it is imperative to be firm with the law but to have a heart of compassion, as justice without mercy could be cruel.

    While calling on the judiciary to be bold and ready to confront the negativities of the system, Bishop Ogunbanwo urged them to make fairness their watchword and allow their conscience to speak louder, knowing that they will give an account of their stewardship to God, the ultimate Judge.

    The Chief Judge of the state, Hon. Justice Mosumola Dipeolu, read the only Bible passage taken from Colossians 3:8-17.