Akarigbo, Alake, Sara Isola, Badru, Others Grace Gbenga Daniel’s 20th Thanksgiving

It was a gathering of high-profile dignitaries from Ogun State and beyond on Sunday during the 20th annual family thanksgiving of the former governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel. The event, which was held at Abraham’s Tabernacle, Sagamu, attracted an array of influential personalities.

Among the notable figures present were the Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi; the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; Oba Adewale Osiberu, Elepe of Epe Sagamu; and the Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle. Also in attendance was the immediate past Nigerian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Alhaji Sarafa Tunji Isola.

Other dignitaries included Alhaja Salmot Badru, former deputy governor of Ogun State; Otunba Femi Pedro, a former deputy governor of Lagos State; Adetola Emmanuel King, CEO of Adron Homes; the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Olor’ogun Sonny Kuku; Prophetess Esther Ajayi; and Engr. Babatunde Odufuwa, who chaired the occasion. Chief Chris Okunowo, the Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Ijebuland, was also among the distinguished guests.

During his address, Otunba Daniel reiterated his dedication to ensuring the creation of a new state from the old Ijebu Province, comprising the Ijebu and Remo divisions. He emphasized the need for collective efforts to address the delays that have hindered the realization of this goal. He drew attention to how other provinces established over a century ago, such as Sokoto, Adamawa, and Oyo, have since been divided into multiple states, leaving Ijebu Province as an anomaly.

The Senator, fondly referred to as OGD, was responding to earlier remarks by the Akarigbo, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, who had urged Daniel to maintain neutrality in matters concerning the creation of a new state from the old Ijebu Province. The monarch lauded Daniel for hosting the annual thanksgiving, which he described as a platform for showcasing gratitude to God.

“I have told our Senator that he cannot afford to be biased,” Oba Ajayi remarked. ”He represents both Remo and Ijebu and must balance his love for both divisions, especially regarding the naming and location of the proposed state capital.”

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In his response, Senator Daniel debunked claims of partiality, stating that his contributions to Remo land far outweigh his efforts in Ijebu. “Even though tradition dictates that we don’t speak after our monarchs, Kabiyesi, with due respect, let me clarify that I am the Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Remo land, not Ijebuland. I reside in Sagamu, not Ijebu-Ode, and I hold the title of Arole of Remoland, not Ijebuland,” he said.

He added, “Interestingly, the Ijebu people also accuse me of bias in favor of Remo. I think our spiritual leaders should pray for me. My love for Remo land is evident, which is why I sited projects like the Agro-Cargo Airport and the Flowergate Industrial Estate at Sagamu Interchange during my tenure as governor.” Otunba Gbenga Daniel said; “however, my commitment to fairness remains unwavering.”

The former governor reaffirmed his determination to see the creation of a new state from the old Ijebu Province and called for unity among stakeholders to achieve this long-cherished dream. He also urged the people to remain hopeful despite Nigeria’s economic challenges, assuring them that brighter days lie ahead.

The retired Primate of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Peter Akinola, who ministered during the service, took his text from Psalm 102. He encouraged the congregation to maintain a heart of gratitude, noting that God’s goodness remains steadfast despite life’s challenges.

Ministering from the book of Psalm 102, Rev. Akinola emphasized the importance of offering praise to God, urging the people to cultivate the spirit of thanksgiving and hope, for we’re created for HIS pleasure.

Rev. Akinola said that in spite of whatever is happening around us the Almighty God deserved to be praised for his immeasurable goodness and kindness saying that people should be ready to praise and adore him in the new year.

The event, which has become an annual tradition for Otunba Daniel, provided an opportunity for reflection, unity, and prayers for the advancement of Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.

Story From NUJ Ogun East Independent Chapel