Reprieve for Gbenga Daniel as Court Bars Ogun State Government From Demolishing Residence, Hotel
In a landmark development, an Ogun State High Court in Sagamu has issued an interim order restraining the state government from demolishing properties owned by former Governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel and his wife, Yeye Olufunke Daniel.
The decision came following an ex parte application filed by the Daniels, seeking urgent judicial intervention to protect their private residence and hotel from alleged unlawful demolition.
The affected properties include the Daniels’ private home, Asoludero Court, and Conference Hotel Limited, both located in the Sagamu Government Reserved Area (GRA). The state government had earlier served a quit notice on August 8, 2025, citing that the buildings were constructed without proper planning permits and allegedly violated setback regulations.
Hearing the matter, Justice O.S. Oloyede reviewed the affidavits presented by the Daniels and granted an interim injunction. The court ordered that the Ogun State government and its agents be restrained from demolishing, tampering with, or interfering in any way with the properties pending the hearing of the application for an interlocutory injunction.
The case has been adjourned to August 19, 2025, for further hearing.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, while defending the state’s position, explained that the demolition notices were part of a statutory land audit intended to enforce compliance with urban planning laws. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all citizens, irrespective of status, adhere to legal regulations governing land use.
The court’s decision has drawn widespread attention, reflecting the ongoing tensions between political figures and state authorities over property rights and regulatory enforcement.
Observers note that the outcome of the forthcoming hearing could set a significant precedent for similar disputes involving private property and government enforcement actions.
The interim injunction signals the judiciary’s willingness to protect citizens’ rights while ensuring due process is followed, even in matters involving high-profile political personalities.
