A former Governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has challenged Governor Dapo Abiodun to a public debate over the administration of the state.
The move has further deepened the political rift between both leaders ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
Daniel threw the challenge on Thursday while appearing on a live television programme, Beyond Headlines, on TVC, where he criticised the governor’s communication style and demanded accountability on key governance issues.
He said, “It’s time. I am throwing a public challenge to sit with me for a debate. He is a good speaker. Our governor has spent seven years, and I have not seen him granting interviews. This is a challenge. I am throwing a public challenge to him.”
The senator argued that Abiodun had questions to answer regarding his stewardship of the state, particularly on transparency in governance.
Speaking on what he described as the administration’s failure to disclose project costs, Daniel expressed surprise that the state government reportedly appealed a court judgment mandating such disclosure.
He said, “The governor has not been disclosing the cost of projects. A US-based Nigerian lawyer took him to court and got the judgment. I was happy that we can know the cost.”
“But I was shocked to my marrows when I heard that his government has appealed the judgment. What is he hiding?” Daniel asked.
Daniel also revisited the circumstances surrounding Abiodun’s emergence as governor in 2019, revealing that a former governor of the state, Ibikunle Amosun, had cautioned him against supporting Abiodun’s candidacy.
Quoting Amosun, Daniel said, “Abiodun is not fit for governor.” He added, “I told Amosun, ‘Were you better when you were there?’ and I supported him.”
Despite the growing tension, Daniel said that he would step down for Abiodun if directed by the President.
He added that the President was aware of the political developments in Ogun East Senatorial District.
The face-off between Daniel and Abiodun is believed to be linked to the contest for the Ogun East senatorial seat ahead of 2027.
While Daniel is seeking re-election, Abiodun is reportedly positioning to contest for the Senate after completing his tenure as governor.
FOLLOW US
FOR MORE HERE
