Civil Society Coalition Backs Ogun Govt On Urban Development Dispute, Faults Gbenga Daniel
The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations for Good Governance (CCSOGG) has thrown its weight behind the Ogun State Government over the recent controversy surrounding contravention notices served on some properties belonging to former governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Secretary General of the coalition, Comrade Johnson Olalekan, the group maintained that the state government has both constitutional and statutory authority to regulate physical planning, housing, and urban development across the state.
According to CCSOGG, such powers are essential for maintaining order, ensuring public safety, and promoting sustainable development.
The coalition said the reasons cited by the government for issuing the notices were valid and in accordance with established planning and environmental laws.
Describing Daniel’s reaction to the matter as “politicizing a routine and lawful enforcement action,” the group accused him of having a long history of turning legitimate regulatory issues into political battles.
“This is not the first time the former governor has attempted to drag government regulation into the mud of political propaganda,” the statement read.
“We recall a similar incident involving a property owned by his wife, where rather than resolving the matter through due process, he launched a campaign of calumny against Governor Dapo Abiodun and his administration.”
CCSOGG further accused Daniel of engaging in “public drama, half-truths, and political blackmail” whenever laws are enforced around him, adding that “no one, regardless of past political office, should consider themselves above the law.”
The group urged Ogun residents to “see through this attempt to twist facts for political gain,” stressing that physical planning enforcement is not persecution but a necessary duty of government.
“If Otunba Daniel believes the notices are unfair, the courts and administrative review processes are available for redress, not the court of public opinion through calculated misinformation,” the coalition said.
Expressing “unreserved support” for Governor Abiodun, CCSOGG called on him to remain focused on enforcing law and order while implementing policies that promote good governance and accountability.
“Ogun State belongs to all of us, and no one’s personal or political interest should override the collective interest of the people,” the statement concluded.
