A political pressure group, the Ogun State Progressive Alliance, has launched a vehement attack on Governor Dapo Abiodun, directly challenging his democratic credentials and anointing Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel as the state’s legitimate progressive leader.
The group’s criticism hinges on a historical contrast: they allege that during the pivotal struggle for June 12 democracy in the 1990s, Governor Abiodun was aligned with the military regime of General Sani Abacha, which opposed the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). Meanwhile, they credit Daniel with being a key financier and material supporter of the pro-democracy group Afenifere, and a peacemaker who resolved a major conflict between OPC factions.
“Where was Dapo Abiodun during the June 12 struggle to now claim he’s a progressive?” challenged the chairman of the Progressive Alliance, Comrade Solomon Adegunle.
The group elaborated on Daniel’s political journey, revealing that his defection to the PDP was endorsed by Bola Tinubu after the old guard in the Alliance for Democracy (AD) blocked younger politicians. They noted that Daniel’s policies in office, which reflected core progressive values, earned him the respectful nickname “Afenifere PDP” and widespread acclaim across Ogun State.
The Alliance asserts that Abiodun’s alleged service under the Abacha administration disqualifies him from the progressive camp, arguing that his record pales in comparison to Daniel’s documented commitment to development.
“Abiodun is only tarnishing Otunba Daniel to distract from his administration’s recent scandals. Ogun’s people are not deceived. They recognize propaganda and desperation when they see it,” stated the group’s secretary, Musefiu Oladimeji.
This escalating public feud has cast a spotlight on Governor Abiodun’s governance and his political tactics, with potential implications for the credibility of the APC and the political dynamics of Ogun State as the 2027 elections approach.
