The 20th annual family thanksgiving of the former Governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), took center stage on Sunday at the Abraham’s Tabernacle in Sagamu, attracting an array of dignitaries from across the state and beyond.
Among the prominent figures at the event were the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi; the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; and the immediate past Nigerian Ambassador to the UK, Alhaji Sarafa Tunji Isola.
Other notable attendees included former Ogun Deputy Governor Alhaja Salmot Badru, former Lagos Deputy Governor Otunba Femi Pedro, the CEO of Adron Homes, Adetola Emmanuel King, the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Olor’oogun Sonny Kuku, Prophetess Esther Ajayi, and Engr. Babatunde Odufuwa, who chaired the occasion. Chief Chris Okunowo, the Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Ijebuland, was also in attendance.
Speaking at the event, Senator Daniel reaffirmed his commitment to the creation of a new state from the old Ijebu Province, which includes the Ijebu and Remo divisions.
He emphasized the need for unity in overcoming the obstacles that have delayed the process, referencing the division of other provinces created a century ago, such as Sokoto, Adamawa, and Oyo.
This call came in response to remarks by the Akarigbo, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, who urged Daniel to remain impartial in matters relating to the proposed state’s creation, including its name and capital.
Daniel assured attendees that his actions have always reflected fairness, highlighting his contributions to Remo land, including the establishment of the Agro-Cargo Airport and the Flowergate Industrial Estate in Sagamu during his tenure as governor from 2003 to 2011.
In his address, the senator humorously addressed accusations of partiality from both Remo and Ijebu factions, saying, “The Ijebu say I am partial, and now Kabiyesi says the same. I think men of God need to pray for me.”
Daniel also urged Nigerians to remain hopeful despite current economic challenges, assuring them of a brighter future.
In his sermon, the retired Primate of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Peter Akinola, ministered from Psalm 102 and encouraged attendees to praise God continually, regardless of circumstances, as a testament to His goodness and kindness.
The thanksgiving event concluded with a renewed call for prayers for Nigeria and collective efforts toward achieving the long-awaited state creation from the old Ijebu Province.
