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Reviewing Otunba Gbenga Daniel Political Sagacity So Far By Victor Ojelabi

Published

2 years ago

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The media once went into frenzy with the news of the defection of one of the former Ogun State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s chieftains, Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), to the ruling side All Progressives Congress (APC) in what has openly kick-started the political permutation ahead of 2023.

The media further reported that OGD took part in the ruling party’s registration and revalidation exercise which officially validated his defection and membership of the party.

In a reaction to the development, the PDP in the South-West came out to say that Otunba Daniel had long defected to APC, adding that it was obvious that the APC has become so embarrassed with the refusal of well-meaning Nigerians to openly associate with the party in its membership registration and was then making up defections for public perception. In fact, the opposition party claimed that by the action of Otunba Gbenga Daniel few hours after the results of the 2019 presidential election was declared, it was obvious that he was among the double-agents who sold the PDP out during the election.

Parts of the media report on OGD at best can be termed misleading as Ogidi Omo, as he was fondly referred, did not technically defect from the PDP to the APC as he stepped aside from politics months ago. OGD had been retired from partisan politics before his recent re-emergence to the call of duty. The assertion by the PDP therefore holds little or nothing to this effect.

Recall that in March 2019, he had sent a letter to the PDP leadership which read, “This is to inform you of my intention to resign from active and partisan politics with effect from today, the 14th day of March 2019.”

He had explained that his move from politics was personal and that the move will allow him to devote more time to charity and resuscitate his non-partisan political leadership academy, which he established a few years ago.

He had gone ahead to explain some reasons for his actions which were termed anti-party by the party:

“Whereas the national leadership of our party, recognised one candidate for the 2019 election, by court pronouncements another candidate, and in compliance with those court orders, which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognised was on the INEC list.

“The candidate recognised by INEC was not acceptable to the national leadership of the party. Our situation was then compounded because the candidate which the court and INEC recognised and accepted as valid has also been expelled by the party.”

That situation made him respond to “the yearnings of our people and joined others in emplacing an administration that we believe will better serve the interests of our people than what currently exists.”

This support berthed the Dapo Abiodun administration.

Perhaps before joining issues with any entity, some things need to be put in retrospect.

OGD had joined the PDP in Ogun State in September, 2001 at an event which was described as one of the most ceremonial political rallies in recent political history in the South Western part of Nigeria. He had gone ahead to create a highly robust and effective political campaign machinery which resulted in an electoral victory for the People’s Democratic Party in Ogun State in 2003; a victory whose dominoes’ effect reverberated through the politics of the South-West region positively with a victory in five states for the then ruling party.

Having served as governor of Ogun state for eight years, his administration till today remains a point of reference in terms of physical, social, economic, educational and human capital development since the state was created in 1976. Notwithstanding these widely acclaimed achievements however, PDP in Ogun State ran into trouble waters towards the end of his administration (about the year 2009) which led to the sad loss in the election of 2011, and regrettably ten (10) years after the party has been unable to resolve those internal disputes and challenges.

Unlike OGD, no politician in Nigeria today will willingly resign from a political party for more than a year before pitching tent with the next available option. Out of respect and the vestige of loyalty he had for the PDP-a party he joined over two decades ago, and of course, the love for his teeming apostles, OGD waited for the best moment to press play on his paused political career.

The most extraordinary characteristic of Daniel is his ability to endure and renew. No politician has faced down greater existential challenges or perfected the technique of quiet adjustment to shifting realities with greater skill than OGD. Perhaps. When he left office in 2011, he made efforts to remain relevant in the scheme of things in the state. In line with his desire, he tried to keep the structure of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in the state intact. But this only lasted a short while, as he had to fight many battles in the process.

Remarkably, OGD operates what can best be termed the politics of the people. Not only is he loved and cherished by the people of Ogun state, he ensures that his political moves are in tandem with the desires of his people. That was why he had to leave the PDP to join the Labour Party. His reason for joining Labour Party was to build a platform that will serve as a proper check mate for irregularities in governance of the state. Though people in the PDP frowned at this but the masses joined him to follow the party. Labour Party became the most dominant opposition party in the state taking over from the PDP. While skeptic analysis said it was an act of desperation for him to have left PDP for Labour Party but majority of the people of Ogun State didn’t care, they started declaring their support for him. He became the voice of the masses speaking against unhealthy antics of the state government.

After much deliberations and reconciliation meetings orchestrated by the National Leadership of PDP, Gbenga Daniel returned to PDP in October 2014. He returned back to PDP with massive supporters from the Labour Party which became a big boost for the PDP. But as the years rolled by, the internal wrangling and power tussles within the party took on greater dimensions, en route the last general elections. Things looked as if they couldn’t get worse, but they did, as the PDP lost the elections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Politically, the PDP had lost its teeth within the political schemes in Ogun state. No longer was it the formidable party of yester years; this is notwithstanding OGD’s large followership in the state. Political pundits and analysts have for years posited that a move for the political gladiator away from the PDP and its many problems will be the best move for OGD’s political life as well as a win for the people that have come to love and trust him.

It, therefore, came as cheery news when he announced his return to politics on a formidable platform like the APC. OGD’s return to politics and the pitching of his tent with the APC marks something of a comeback for the Ijebu political titan, whose political exploits appeared irretrievably tainted by the internal wrangling and power tussle that afflicted the People’s Democratic Party.

Onboard APC, OGD relevance, political clout, prowess, etc, go beyond Ogun State to the national level for the greater good of the Nigerian people. This can be envisaged from his programme on Public Private Partnership which attracted several businesses into the state during his tenure. And why not? From education to health, sports, economy, agriculture, urban renewal and rural development, power, infrastructure, human development, housing, industrialisation, tourism and employment generation, OGD’s imprints in the state were phenomenal!

As at the last count, about 70 companies berthed in Ogun State from 2003 to 2011 with over 250,000 jobs provided through various employment generation schemes of the State government. In his eight years, the OGD Administration did more roads than all the administrations before it and most of these were done through direct labour with the Ministry of Works and the Ogun State Road Management Agency OGROMA. By utilising this method, costs were significantly saved while the confidence of indigenous engineers was reinstated in the people. The Olumo Rock resort was refurbished meeting international tourism standard, the MKO International Stadium Abeokuta was renovated and three other stadiums in other geo-political zones of the state were constructed to FIFA specifications.

The NYSC orientation camp in Sagamu is reputed to be the best in the country while the Tai Solarin College of Education was upgraded to University status making it the first in Nigeria and second in Africa. It was adjudged the best University of Education In Africa in 2011. The construction of a modern secretariat for civil servants in the state at a cost which beat the imagination of late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua who commissioned it remains a landmark.

The construction of the six-lane Lalubu Road – the commercial nerve centre of Abeokuta – without a single demolition of existing building was to become a standard in road constructions in Ogun State today.

For OGD, the governorship was a 24-hour job. The last project he commissioned, the OPIC PLAZA remains, till date, is the tallest structure in Ogun State.

Perhaps it is not immodest to say that the incredible performance of Otunba Gbenga Daniel is now a benchmark to measure the performance of future leaders of the gateway state. In the words of the Nobel Laureate himself, Professor Wole Soyinka, “The various projects embarked upon by Governor Daniel are laudable and practical”.

If his decisions have gained him so much love and respect from his teeming apostles and the good people of Ogun State in the past, then who dares question why a lion decided to roar again?

Ogidi Omo has once again thrown his hat into the ring. He is the APC senatorial candidate for Ogun East and given his antecedents, there is no gainsaying that the good people of his senatorial district are in for the best available representation at the national assembly.

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BIG STORY

NNPCL Extends Open Invitation To Former President Obasanjo For Tour Of Port Harcourt Refinery

Published

10 hours ago

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January 2, 2025

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has extended an invitation to former President Olusegun Obasanjo for a tour of the Port Harcourt Refinery to verify its operational status.

This development follows Obasanjo’s recent interview with Channels Television, where he cited advice from “Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)” suggesting the refinery would not function effectively.

According to the former president, “SPDC,” which was approached to acquire equity in the refinery, expressed concerns about corruption impeding its operations.

Obasanjo further alleged that NNPCL has been misleading Nigerians about the refinery’s functionality.

Responding to the claims, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, respectfully invited the former president to visit the facility, emphasizing the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Soneye said: “Furthermore, we extend an open invitation to President Obasanjo for a tour of the rehabilitated refineries to witness firsthand the progress made under the new “NNPC Limited.”

Soneye also invited Obasanjo to join the NNPCL in its determination to guarantee the country’s energy security.

“We invite our esteemed former president to join us in this effort as we continue to deliver energy security for our nation and provide tangible benefits to Nigerians.

“His wisdom and experience are invaluable, and we assure him that his advice will always be welcomed and appreciated,” he said.

Soneye explained that the NNPCL did not only carry out a turnaround maintenance on the plant but it embarked on a complete overhaul of the refinery.

He said: “As part of this transformation, “NNPC Limited” has gone beyond oil and gas to become an integrated energy company.

“One of our notable achievements is the complete rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PhRC) and Warri Refinery.

“This process was not merely the “Turnaround Maintenance (TAM)” of the past but a full-scale overhaul designed to meet world-class standards. Similarly, we are currently conducting the same comprehensive rehabilitation of the old Port Harcourt Refinery and Kaduna Refinery.”

He added that NNPCL has evolved from being a government corporation to a private entity with limited liability.

He said owing to the transition, NNPCL has also moved on from being a loss-making organization to a profit-driven international energy firm.

The new “NNPC Limited,” he said, is committed not only to enhancing these refineries but also to maintaining them to global standards.

Soneye noted that NNPCL will ensure their sustainable operation and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s energy security.

He said: “Regarding his recent comments, we would like to respectfully clarify the current state of the “NNPC.”

The “NNPC” has undergone a transformative journey, evolving from a government corporation into a private entity—”NNPC Limited.”

“This transition has marked a significant shift from being a loss-making organization to a profit-oriented global energy company.”

“We deeply respect and hold President Obasanjo in the highest regard as a distinguished statesman who has contributed significantly to the progress of our nation.

“He has every right to share enduring commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria. Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for our great nation.”

Soneye, who was also requested to react to a media report that NNPCL was to stop the supply of crude oil to Dangote Refinery said, “No need to respond to falsehood.”

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BIG STORY

Naijahottestgist Unveils Man Of The Year, Company Of The Year, Young Person Of The Year, And Public Servant Of The Year!

Published

13 hours ago

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January 2, 2025

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In a year filled with trials and triumphs, these individuals and organizations have risen above challenges to embody resilience, innovation, and exceptional leadership. From the unbreakable spirit of the Man of the Year to the groundbreaking strides of Dangote Refinery, the transformative efforts of Stella Okotete, and the impactful reforms led by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, these stories inspire hope and progress for a brighter Nigeria.

1. Meet the Man of the Year

The Man of the Year is no ordinary person. He’s a Nigerian who has lived through the realities of 2024—one of the toughest years yet.

He is the man who has endured the hardship of a nation in flux. From waking up each day to face the high cost of fuel to navigating skyrocketing food prices, he’s felt the weight of every naira spent. Insecurity loomed over his daily life, yet he carried on with courage, protecting what mattered most.

Through it all, this man refused to break. His resilience, grit, and determination to keep moving forward in the face of overwhelming odds set him apart. He is not celebrated for wealth or fame but for his strength, perseverance, and the hope he carries in his heart for a better tomorrow.

The Man of the Year is a symbol of every Nigerian who has faced the same struggles, stood firm, and chosen to believe in a brighter future. His story is your story—one of survival, strength, and the unbreakable spirit of Naija.

Here’s to the Man of the Year. He is proof that no matter how hard the times, resilience will always shine through.

2. Young Person of the Year: Stella Erhuwuoghene Okotete

Stella Okotete, Executive Director of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), stands out as a trailblazer promoting youth and women’s participation in business, governance, and politics. A visionary leader, she spearheads innovative initiatives at NEXIM, including the Women and Youth Export Development Facility, which provides low-interest loans, and the Nigerian Export-Import Bank Academy (NEXA), a certified digital platform for export-import education.

With degrees from Benson Idahosa University and NOUN, alongside certifications from global institutions such as Harvard, Oxford, and Columbia Business School, Okotete has held significant political roles, including secretary of the APC Election Planning and Monitoring Committee in 2023. Her contributions to public service include serving as Special Assistant on MDGs for Delta State, where she aligned policies with sustainable development goals and implemented impactful programs in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.

As co-founder of the E’Girls Foundation, she has championed girl-child rights and human capacity development since 2000. Her work has also led to groundbreaking efforts like outlawing female circumcision in Ughelli North and driving school enrollment through the “War Against Loitering and Hawking During School Hours” initiative.

Committed to empowering women in governance, she developed a strategy to train 20 million women for public office and conceptualized the Progressive Women Trust Fund, fostering financial support for female leaders. Okotete’s relentless dedication to service, innovation, and empowerment makes her a standout leader transforming Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.

3. Nigerian company of the year

Dangote Refinery

The Dangote Refinery is a game-changer for Nigeria’s oil industry. Located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos, it’s the largest single-train refinery in the world, with a capacity to process 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

This massive project, worth over $19 billion, is expected to meet 100% of Nigeria’s oil needs and even have a surplus for export. The refinery will produce various petroleum products, including diesel, kerosene, and gasoline.

Some impressive features of the Dangote Refinery include:

– *Pipeline Infrastructure*: The largest sub-sea pipeline infrastructure in the world, spanning 1,100 kilometers.

– *Power Generation*: A 435MW Power Plant that can meet the total power requirement of Ibadan DisCo.

– *Job Creation*: The refinery is expected to provide 135,000 permanent jobs in the region.

The refinery began production in January 2024, starting with diesel fuel and aviation fuel. With its advanced technology and massive capacity, the Dangote Refinery is set to revolutionize Nigeria’s oil industry and boost the country’s economy.

4. Nigerian public servant of the year

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior in Nigeria, has indeed been associated with efforts to bring about positive change and reform in the country.

Some of the key areas where Tunji-Ojo has been instrumental in driving reform include:

1. *Prison Reform*: Tunji-Ojo has been advocating for prison reform, aiming to improve the living conditions and rehabilitation programs for inmates.

2. *Immigration Reform*: He has been working to modernize Nigeria’s immigration system, making it more efficient and effective in managing the country’s borders.

3. *Disaster Management*: Tunji-Ojo has been instrumental in strengthening Nigeria’s disaster management capabilities, ensuring that the country is better prepared to respond to natural disasters and emergencies.

4. *Internal Security*: He has been working to enhance internal security in Nigeria, focusing on community policing and intelligence-driven law enforcement.

These efforts demonstrate Tunji-Ojo’s commitment to driving positive change and reform in Nigeria, particularly in the areas of justice, security, and humanitarian response.

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BIG STORY

Inside Delta: Police Arrest Man For Allegedly Stabbing Neighbour To Death Over Rice

Published

14 hours ago

on

January 2, 2025

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The Delta State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 30-year-old Daniel Onyejekwe for allegedly stabbing his neighbor, Christian, to death over a dispute about rice.

The incident occurred on New Year’s Day in the Ogwanja area of Sapele, Delta State.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the development on Thursday, saying, “It is confirmed, and the suspect is in custody.

The two were fighting and injured themselves badly. Unfortunately, one, Christian, died.”

An eyewitness reported that the altercation started when rice was being shared along Boyo Road in Ogwanja.

An argument ensued between Onyejekwe and the deceased, leading to a physical fight.

The eyewitness stated, “Christian and Daniel started dragging the rice, and during the fight, Daniel picked a bottle and stabbed Christian multiple times. The vigilante rushed him to the hospital, but he was confirmed dead on arrival.”

The remains of the deceased have been deposited at a mortuary, while the police have launched an investigation. SP Edafe assured residents that the suspect would be prosecuted after the investigation was concluded.

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