Ogun Political Feud Escalates as Daniel Accuses Abiodun of Targeting His Properties

Former Governor Alleges Political Persecution Over Demolition Notices

A political firestorm has erupted in Ogun State between former Governor Gbenga Daniel and current Governor Dapo Abiodun, with the senator accusing the state government of targeting his properties for demolition in what he describes as “political persecution at its peak.”

The controversy began on August 8, 2025, when notices from the Ogun State Planning and Development Authority were served on three of Daniel’s properties in Sagamu: his private residence (Asoludero Court), Conference Hotel Limited, and its annex. The notices cited alleged violations of the 2022 Urban and Regional Planning Law, including construction without proper permits and inadequate setbacks.

Daniel’s Strong Rebuttal

Through his media aide Steve Oliyide, Senator Daniel issued a scathing statement condemning the action as “a thuggish tactic” designed to intimidate a political opponent. He argued that the properties in question were built long before the 2022 law came into effect – with Asoludero Court constructed in 2004, Conference Hotel in 2013, and its annex in 2015.

“This is a ludicrous and flimsy excuse,” the statement read. “The documents concerning these properties cite ‘suspected’ offences related to construction without adequate permits – which is laughable considering these structures have stood for years without issue.”

Daniel framed the notices as evidence of Governor Abiodun’s “malicious and vindictive abuse of power,” accusing him of hiding behind a newly enacted law to retroactively target a political rival. The former governor described the move as unprecedented political persecution in Ogun State’s history.

Government’s Counter-Argument

The Ogun State government, through Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Kayode Akinmade, strongly denied singling out Daniel’s properties. Akinmade characterized the notices as part of a broader audit of building approvals across Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode Government Reserved Areas affecting numerous property owners.

“All Otunba Gbenga Daniel needs to do, just like every other person in a similar situation, is to present his planning permit and land title to the relevant government agency for verification,” Akinmade stated.

The government official emphasized that no individual, regardless of status, should be above state laws: “Senator Gbenga Daniel is distinguished, no doubt, but he is not bigger than Ogun State. He should submit himself unreservedly to the same laws he once swore twice to uphold.”

Unanswered Questions

However, the government response failed to address several critical questions raised by the controversy:

• How could permits obtained before the 2022 law’s enactment violate its provisions?
• Why would structures built and approved under previous administrations suddenly become non-compliant?
• What specific criteria triggered the audit that led to these particular notices?

Political analysts suggest the dispute may reflect deeper tensions between the two political figures, with Daniel having previously supported Abiodun’s opponent in the 2023 gubernatorial election before eventually reconciling.

Legal and Political Implications

Legal experts consulted by our reporters note that retroactive application of laws typically faces constitutional challenges. “If these properties were legally approved under the existing regulations of their time, applying new standards retroactively would require careful legal scrutiny,” explained constitutional lawyer Adeola Williams.

The controversy has sparked debate about property rights, urban planning enforcement, and the potential weaponization of government powers against political opponents. Civil society groups are calling for transparency in the audit process and equal application of the law.

As the standoff continues, all eyes remain on whether the government will proceed with enforcement actions and how Senator Daniel might respond legally. The situation underscores the delicate balance between urban development regulation and protection of property rights in Nigeria’s rapidly growing cities.

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