Society Gists

By Seunmanuel Faleye

We take a moment to reflect on some of Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s, OGD, legacy as the third democratically elected governor of Ogun State between 2003 and 2011 as he prepares for his new assignment in the public service, where he was overwhelmingly elected on February 18 to represent Ogun East senatorial district in the hallowed red chambers.

Additionally, we will share some testimonials from some eminent Nigerians about OGD’s exceptional performance during his tenure as governor.

But before then it is imperative for public office holders to take a cue from OGD and understand that they have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on society.

While your term in office may only last a few years, the decisions you make and the policies you implement can have an impact for decades to come. This is why it is essential to consider the legacy you want to leave behind.

Leaving a positive legacy is not only beneficial to your own reputation but also for the people you serve. Here are some reasons why leaving a good legacy as a public officeholder is important:

When you leave the office with a positive legacy, it builds trust and credibility with the people you served.

They will view you as someone who has made a positive impact on their lives, and they will be more likely to support your future endeavors.

This is typified by the overwhelming support OGD enjoyed from his people in Ogun East during his senatorial campaign.

Here are some of OGD’s milestone achievements while governor.

· Dualization of the Abeokuta-Kobape-Siun-Sagamu highway

· He promoted entrepreneurship among young people through voracious youth development programs.

· While in the office included building roads, recreational centers, and stadiums in the three senatorial districts of the state, and setting up a University of Education.

· The Gateway International Stadium

· He authorized the reduction of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic fees to ₦7,000.

· He started the Ogun State Agro Cargo Airport in Lilisan-Remo. An international air cargo port.

· He established three free trade zones in each senatorial district in Ogun State.

· Housing program under Daniel’s administration transformed the face of Abeokuta and other major cities.

· He transformed Olumo Rock, turning it into a money-making machine with the introduction of an elevator to take tourists to the top of the rock.

· During his tenure, three former Nigerian Presidents, namely Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Late Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua, and Dr. Goodluck Jonathan commissioned monumental projects.

· Artisans benefitted immensely from his administration as they were freely provided with sewing machines, hairdressers, generators, etc. to enhance their trade.

· Electrification of roads in major cities was part of his program and he succeeded in persuading the Federal Government to erect the first flyover bridge in Ogun State at Sango.

· Ogun State has the record of having the first University of Education in Nigeria is to his administration’s credit.

· Under his administration the area boys and girls became “good boys and girls” earning monthly salaries as painters under the Ogun Employment Generating Program (OGEGEP).

Here are what some eminent Nigerians said about OGD’s achievement while in office.

“Otunba Gbenga Daniel is doing wonderfully well. He is not only an asset to Ogun State but to the nation in general.”

– Chief Ernest Shonekan (Former Head of Interim National Government)
“So far, I have not regretted following Otunba Gbenga Daniel, because he happens to be a very progressive governor who has touched nearly everybody in Ogun State in one way or the other. He is a man of his word who never forgets his promises to his people. I can liken his progressive governance to that of late Pa. Obafemi Awolowo and I pray that God Almighty continues to give him strength, energy, and wisdom to move Ogun State forward.”

–Otunba Kunle Kolawole Abdul (Frontline publisher/Politician)
“OGD is a fantastic person. When we had a cause to do some things together in respect of the university of Lagos, he performed excellently well.

Governor Daniel will take Ogun State to greater heights. I have fallen deeply in love with him. I have been monitoring his programs which are people-oriented.

My prayer to God is to continue to give him good health, wisdom, and understanding.”
–Chief Afe Babalola (Legal Luminary)

“We benefit from OGD’s successes. Governor Daniel had demonstrated outstanding resourcefulness, foresight, and dogged determination in his efforts to turn Ogun state around, despite enormous odds. He has shown what is possible in a society when leaders are focused and do not look for excuses for doing anything…”
–Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (Former Vice President)