Abiodun vows to end Ogun bitter succession politics
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has promised to ensure a smooth, peaceful and conflict-free transfer of power at the end of his second term in 2027, saying he is determined to set a new standard for governorship succession in the state.
The governor made this commitment on Thursday during the Christmas service at St. James’ Anglican Church in Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area. According to him, his administration aims to be the first in Ogun State’s history to hand over power without political bitterness or discord.
He noted that past successions in the state have often been marked by intense rivalry, disputes and political tension that sometimes threatened public peace.
Recalling previous transitions, Abiodun referenced the 2011 election period when then-Governor Gbenga Daniel supported Gboyega Isiaka from Ogun West as his preferred successor. However, party leaders, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, opposed the choice and backed the late General Adetunji Olurin. Both candidates eventually lost to Ibikunle Amosun of the Action Congress of Nigeria.
He also cited the events leading to the 2019 governorship election, when outgoing Governor Amosun insisted on Adekunle Akinlade as his successor, while the APC endorsed Abiodun. The disagreement led Amosun and his supporters to defect to the Allied Peoples Movement, though Abiodun ultimately won the election.
Speaking at the church service, Abiodun said his government would deliberately avoid the conflicts that characterised past transitions, expressing confidence that he would successfully hand over to a new governor in 2027.
He attributed this confidence to the achievements of his administration, stating that the state’s annual budget had grown from about ₦355 billion to over ₦2.7 trillion, reflecting economic growth and increased investor confidence. He highlighted achievements such as the reconstruction of over 2,000 schools, job creation, farmer empowerment and industrial expansion.
The governor also mentioned major infrastructure projects, including the Gateway International Airport, as part of his administration’s legacy across all senatorial districts.
Abiodun praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, noting improvements in fuel availability, easing inflation and a more stable foreign exchange environment under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Reflecting on the meaning of Christmas, the governor described it as a season of love, peace and compassion, urging citizens to support the less privileged and live according to Christian values.
In his sermon titled “Christmas Is God’s Best Gift to You,” the church’s vicar, Venerable Tolulope Akinwande, described Christmas as the celebration of God giving Himself to humanity through Jesus Christ. He urged believers to embrace love and transformation while also praying that Governor Abiodun’s tenure would end stronger than it began.
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