Political Rift Deepens Between Gbenga Daniel and Governor Dapo Abiodun Over Ogun’s Tertiary Education

A major political rift  dispute erupted on Thursday between former Ogun State Governor and current senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, and the state’s incumbent Governor, Dapo Abiodun. The clash stemmed from allegations of neglect and underfunding of the state’s tertiary institutions, particularly the takeover of the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijagun by the Federal Government.

Daniel, in an open letter that quickly went viral, criticized Abiodun’s administration for failing to adequately fund the university, leading to its transfer to federal ownership. However, the state government, through Abiodun’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, dismissed the claims, accusing Daniel of political mischief and attempting to undermine the governor’s achievements.

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Gbenga Daniel Criticizes Ogun State’s Handling of TASUED

In his letter, Senator Gbenga Daniel acknowledged some benefits of the Federal Government’s intervention in taking over TASUED. However, he saw it as a major indictment of the Ogun State government’s failure to properly maintain the institution.

Daniel recalled that his administration had established TASUED in 2005 to provide an alternative university for students, as Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Ago-Iwoye could only admit 3,500 students at the time. He expressed disappointment that rather than strengthening the university, the state government had allowed it to deteriorate.

He pointed out that the N1 trillion budget of Ogun State should have been enough to sustain and develop its educational sector.

“Our people will ask: what is the percentage of our budget that is being allocated to the development of education from such humongous budget appropriation?”

Daniel also raised concerns that the takeover would result in the loss of local control over admissions, which had been one of the key advantages of having TASUED as a state-run institution. He feared that under federal management, the leadership of the university could now come from anywhere in Nigeria, potentially reducing opportunities for indigenous students.

Furthermore, Daniel accused Governor Abiodun of failing to address the neglect of other state-owned institutions, including four ICT polytechnics and other higher education facilities in Ogun State. He warned that if the state government could not properly fund its institutions, Ogun might have to rely on federal takeovers for survival.

Governor Abiodun’s Camp Fires Back

In a strongly worded rebuttal, Governor Abiodun’s Special Adviser, Kayode Akinmade, dismissed Daniel’s criticisms as politically motivated and lacking merit.

Akinmade insisted that TASUED’s federal takeover was not due to underfunding but rather part of a broader strategy for the equitable distribution of federal institutions across states. He maintained that Ogun State had invested significantly in the university and that the federal government’s involvement would enhance TASUED’s financial stability.

“One cannot help but question the true intent behind the senator’s much-publicised ‘open letter’ to Governor Abiodun—a document filled with mischaracterisations and insinuations.”

He described Daniel’s letter as a desperate political stunt, suggesting that the senator was unhappy that the milestone occurred under Governor Abiodun’s leadership.

“As is often the case, Daniel’s outbursts seem less about facts and more about political opportunism. His remarks read more like a personal vendetta than a constructive critique.”

Akinmade further stressed that Ogun’s educational sector has witnessed major improvements under Abiodun’s leadership, including increased investments and infrastructural development. He urged the public to disregard Daniel’s claims, asserting that the takeover of TASUED was in the best interest of the state.

Implications of the TASUED Takeover for Ogun State

The controversy surrounding the federal acquisition of TASUED raises questions about the state government’s financial management and its ability to sustain its educational institutions. While Daniel sees it as an indictment of the government’s failure, Abiodun’s camp argues that it was a strategic move to enhance the university’s funding and long-term viability.

With the federal status of TASUED, the university is now eligible for better funding opportunities, including access to Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) resources and increased budgetary allocations. However, the shift also means Ogun State loses its authority over the university’s policies, admissions, and leadership.

The broader concern remains: What will happen to other state-owned institutions? If Ogun State struggles to fund its universities, does this signal a trend where more institutions may be handed over to the Federal Government?

The Political Undertones of the Dispute

The clash between Gbenga Daniel and Dapo Abiodun is not just about TASUED—it reflects a larger political rivalry between both figures within Ogun State.

Daniel’s open criticism of Abiodun could be an attempt to position himself as a strong voice in Ogun politics, especially as governorship battles heat up ahead of future elections. By highlighting failures in education funding, Daniel is drawing public attention to issues that could impact Abiodun’s reputation.

On the other hand, Abiodun’s camp sees Daniel’s remarks as an attack meant to discredit his administration. By portraying Daniel’s letter as politically motivated, Abiodun’s team is attempting to defend his legacy and neutralize any threats to his influence.

What’s Next?

As Ogun State moves forward, several key questions remain:

• Will other state-owned institutions face similar financial challenges?
• How will the federal takeover of TASUED impact Ogun’s students and education system?
• Does this controversy signal deeper political cracks within the Ogun APC?

What is clear is that the battle for Ogun State’s political landscape is far from over. As 2027 elections approach, the Daniel-Abiodun rivalry could continue to shape political discussions and policy debates in the state.