ABEOKUTA — Former Ogun State governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has shed light on his long-standing rift with his successor, Ibikunle Amosun, describing their relationship as one marked by political tension and personal trials.
Speaking on Monday during his 70th birthday thanksgiving service held at the Abraham Tabernacle in Sagamu, Daniel reflected on the events that led to their fallout, which dates back to the build-up to the 2011 governorship election.
Daniel, who governed Ogun State from 2003 to 2011, said the disagreement stemmed largely from Amosun’s ambition to succeed him.
Daniel was supporting his announced candidate, Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka of the Peoples Party of Nigeria (PPN) against Senator Ibikunle Amosun of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).
According to him, both men initially shared political aspirations, but tensions escalated when Amosun became “in a hurry” to become governor.
The former governor, however, did not shy away from describing the aftermath of the transition as difficult, stating that he “went through hell” during Amosun’s administration.
His tenure was followed by a series of actions from the succeeding government, including the closure of his multi-billion naira hotel in Abeokuta and investigations into his administration by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Despite the history of hostilities, Daniel struck a reconciliatory tone, suggesting that time and spiritual intervention had helped mend fences.
“Before I begin to appreciate our traditional rulers, let me appreciate the enfant terrible successor of mine whom I called “Ajagun gbade”. He gave me hell. But with the prayers of our clergymen, he’s now repentant. Thank you very much.
“We started the race together, but he was in so much in a hurry to become governor, that was what happened. But you’re a fighter and a warrior. You fought and you won the election and there’s nothing we can do about it,” Daniel explained in a lighthearted remark.
The rift between the two political figures had once created one of the most significant political crises in Ogun State, particularly during the 2011 elections when both camps were deeply divided.
In addition to addressing past political tensions, Daniel used the occasion to advocate for the creation of Ijebu State in the South-West.
He appealed to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, to support Ogun State’s bid for the proposed Ijebu State.
“We have a little issue with you over state creation, but I believe that in the end, you will concede to Ogun State,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy, commended Daniel’s legacy, praising his contributions to the state’s economic growth and governance.
Abiodun noted that Daniel brought innovation, enterprise, and creativity to leadership during his time in office, leaving a lasting impact on Ogun State’s development.
The thanksgiving service attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate Daniel’s life and legacy at 70.
Earlier, in his sermon, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has paid glowing tribute to former Ogun State governor Gbenga Daniel, describing him as an “exceptional leader” and a man of integrity.
Adeboye recounted his long experience living in Ogun State since 1983, noting that he had witnessed the administrations of several governors, including those from the military era.
According to him, Daniel stands out among them for his consistency and sincerity.
“Otunba Gbenga Daniel has been quite exceptional. In dealing with the church of God, he has not played politics with the church or with any of us.”
The respected cleric emphasized that the former governor distinguished himself by keeping his promises, adding that Daniel was not the type to delay fulfilling commitments until a second term in office.
Highlighting his character, Adeboye described Daniel as a true embodiment of the Yoruba value of Omoluwabi, a term denoting integrity, honor, and good character, adding that individuals with such qualities are rare.
The event drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, celebrating Daniel’s life, legacy, and contributions to governance and public service.
Among the countless VIPs present at the church thanksgiving service are; Osun State Governor, Demola Adeleke, Wife of President Olusegun Obasanjo, Mrs. Bola Obasanjo, former military governors, Colonel Daniel Akintonde (Rtd), Navy Captain Kayode Olofinmoyin (Rtd), Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, former Ogun State Deputy Governors, Alhaja Salmot Badru, Engr. Yetunde Onanuga, former Nigeria’s Ambassador to Switzerland, Tokunbo Awolowo Dosunmu, Former Nigeria’s Ambassador to United Kingdom, Sarafa Tunji Ishola, the Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, Honourable Ladi Adebutu, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, among others.
