By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.

A political advocacy group, Sustainability of Ogun & Dapo Abiodun Legacy Beyond 2027, has rejected claims in a recent opinion article titled “Ogun East: Beyond the Motor Park Politics,” describing the piece as speculative and disconnected from the realities of governance.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the group’s State Convener, Dr. Arabambi Abayomi, dismissed assertions that Governor Dapo Abiodun lacks the collaborative skills required for legislative responsibilities, particularly in the Senate. He argued that such claims reflect a poor understanding of both executive leadership and legislative processes in Nigeria.

Arabambi challenged the article’s claim that the governor leads through command rather than consensus, stating that governance at the state level inherently involves negotiation with multiple stakeholders, including the House of Assembly, traditional rulers, labour unions, local government authorities, federal agencies, and the private sector.

“Executive leadership in Nigeria is negotiation in its purest form,” the statement noted, warning against portraying governorship as autocratic while elevating the Senate as the sole platform for consensus-building.

Highlighting the administration’s achievements over the past seven years, the group cited the completion of inherited projects, expansion of road networks, upgrades in healthcare facilities across all 236 wards, and investments in key sectors such as education, agriculture, aviation, and security. It also pointed to improvements in the state’s internally generated revenue, economic growth, and a more stable political environment.

The group further argued that disagreements between the governor and some political figures should not be interpreted as leadership failure, stressing that effective governance often requires confronting entrenched interests rather than pursuing superficial consensus.

Referencing past political relationships, including those involving elder statesman Olusegun Osoba and former governor Gbenga Daniel, the statement maintained that Abiodun has remained focused on governance despite shifting political alliances.

On the debate over his suitability for the Senate, the group described executive experience as a strength, not a weakness. It characterized the Senate as a complex and demanding institution where competence, experience, and strategic influence are critical.

“The Senate requires individuals who have managed complex systems, made difficult decisions, and delivered measurable results,” Arabambi stated.

The group also criticised what it described as “personality-driven narratives disguised as political analysis,” noting that critics have failed to identify specific legislative shortcomings attributable to the governor’s temperament.