Former Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel on Sunday declared that true leadership is measured by results, not rhetoric, insisting that “representation without results is betrayal.”
He made the statement in Ilishan – Remo in Ikenne Local Government Area during the BATOGD Movement Midterm Community Assessment and Review Tour.
Addressing traditional rulers, community leaders, residents and party members from the LG, Daniel described the visit as “coming home,” noting that the land of Chief Obafemi Awolowo remains a symbol of visionary politics and progressive governance in Nigeria.
SPONSOR AD
“This soil produced the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo—the lamp that lit the path of progressive politics in the Southwest and Nigeria. His dream of a self-reliant, educated, and prosperous people continues to inspire us,” he said.
The senator announced that the Southwest Development Commission Bill, which he sponsored, had been signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, the law will institutionalize regional growth and development similar to the old Western Nigeria Development Corporation (WNDC).
“The dream of Awolowo is alive again, through law, through vision, through action,” he said.
Daniel also revealed plans to revive a livestock and dairy project in partnership with a multinational company, ZAMBEEF of Zambia, initially designed during his tenure as governor.
He explained that the project, meant to create over 10,000 jobs, was stalled due to political crises and funding delays.
“I am happy to report that this project is now being reactivated in principle and will be pushed through the new Southwest Development Commission,” he said.
The senator emphasized that development must directly benefit the people.
“This Midterm Tour of the nine local governments of Ogun East is about listening to the people, not talking to them. Leadership without listening is arrogance and representation without results is betrayal.
“I came to Ikenne not to campaign, but to give an account of our stewardship,” he said.
Reflecting on ongoing state projects, Daniel commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for completing the Gateway International Airport in Remo, a project conceptualized during his administration.
He listed completed and ongoing constituency projects in Ikenne, including a solar-powered borehole in Ogere, solar streetlights in Ilishan, and an ultra-modern skills acquisition centre in Irolu.
He assured residents that the initiatives were part of his effort to empower communities across Ogun East.
Before the rally, Daniel inspected the Federal Strategic Grain Reserve in Ikenne, calling for its revitalization.
Speaking on President Tinubu’s administration, he said the BATOGD Movement was built to extend the Renewed Hope Agenda to the grassroots.
Daniel also highlighted legislative efforts on the Aviation School Bill at Ilara, Remo North, noting that the project would train youths for aviation careers.
“Though sited in Remo North, its benefits will spill over to Ikenne and beyond,” he said.
He urged the people to protect and sustain public projects, stressing that “no project survives when the people stand aloof.”
