Drama as VP Shettima Subtly Checkmates Governor Abiodun at OOUTH Commissioning in Sagamu

A mild but telling drama unfolded today during the official commissioning of the newly constructed Trauma and Diagnostic Centre at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, donated by business mogul Alhaji Adebola Adegunwa.

The high-profile event, attended by Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, alongside other dignitaries, witnessed an unexpected moment when the Vice President, while being conducted around the facility, turned to former Ogun State Governor and serving Senator, Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), and remarked:
“You are from Sagamu, this your Governor is not being fair to you.”

The comment, which immediately sparked laughter among those present — including Governor Dapo Abiodun — appeared to be a veiled criticism of the perceived protocol imbalance at Ogun State functions. Though made in jest, political observers noted the undertone, given the pattern where Governor Abiodun often recognizes his appointees and aides before acknowledging predecessors like former Governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun — both of whom were instrumental in his political journey.

While the Vice President did not elaborate further, the remark is believed to be linked to this persistent breach in political decorum, which has reportedly contributed to the strained relationship between Governor Abiodun and his predecessors. This protocol misstep is also cited as a reason why former Governors Daniel and Amosun frequently steer clear of state functions, except in cases where the event is highly significant or personally extended, as was the case today.

For Otunba Gbenga Daniel, the event was more than ceremonial — it marked the realization of a vision. Back in 2010, his administration laid the foundation for a Diagnostic and Trauma Centre at OOUTH.

To make the site accessible, his government constructed a bridge via OGROMA, commissioned the same day the foundation stone was laid. Unfortunately, the project was abandoned by successive administrations.

It took the intervention of philanthropist Alhaji Adebola Adegunwa, who chose to mark his 80th birthday with a legacy project for the Sagamu community, to finally bring the vision to life. The state-of-the-art centre now stands as a beacon of hope for critical healthcare delivery in Ogun State and a testament to the power of private-public synergy.

As the dignitaries concluded the tour and the formal commissioning, the political undertones of the Vice President’s remark lingered — a reminder of the importance of unity, respect, and protocol in leadership.

 

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