Political Differences Aside: Governor Abiodun Pays Tribute to Predecessor Gbenga Daniel

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has described his predecessor and current Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, as a highly revered leader whose footsteps he continues to follow, despite their recent political friction.

Abiodun gave the tribute during the burial service for Mrs. Sabainah Opawole, mother of Yeye Olufunke Daniel, held at the Ibara Baptist Church in Abeokuta.

Speaking to the congregation, Abiodun openly recognized the former governor’s contributions to the development of the state.

“Your Excellency, the former Executive Governor of Ogun State, the Distinguished Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District a man who I hold in very high esteem, a man whose footsteps I’m closely following,” Abiodun stated during the service.

The public praise comes after months of political rivalry between the two leaders regarding the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Ogun East Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections. The disagreement intensified following the party’s decision to adopt Abiodun as a consensus candidate for the seat after his tenure as governor, leading Daniel to withdraw from the race over security concerns and procedural disputes.

The funeral service also briefly reflected broader political rivalries when supporters of opposition and ruling party figures exchanged chants inside the church. Order was quickly restored after Senator Daniel intervened, allowing the program to proceed seamlessly.

The late Mrs. Opawole, who passed away at the age of 93, was laid to rest in the presence of several prominent figures, including former First Lady Bola Obasanjo (representing former President Olusegun Obasanjo), Senator Solomon Adeola, former Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Ishola, and Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, among other dignitaries.