Former Ogun State governor and senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has said his political camp played a decisive role in the emergence of Governor Dapo Abiodun, noting that the governor might not have secured office without their backing.

Daniel made the remark while speaking with journalists in Sagamu, Ogun State, as part of activities marking his 70th birthday, where he also reflected on his political journey and developments in the state.

“Without people like us and the grace of God, he probably wouldn’t have been governor,” he said.

The former governor explained that internal dynamics within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the time influenced his decision to support Abiodun’s governorship ambition.

His comments come amid a prolonged rift between both politicians, which began during Abiodun’s second term. The governor had earlier expressed disappointment that some National Assembly members he supported did not back his re-election bid in 2023.

Abiodun won the election against PDP candidate Ladi Adebutu by a margin of 13,915 votes, despite being the incumbent.

Daniel, however, maintained that he and his team contributed to Abiodun’s re-election, while raising concerns about what he described as insufficient recognition of the efforts of political allies.

He stressed the need for leaders to prioritise public interest over personal considerations, adding that he had consistently avoided unnecessary disputes by pursuing legal means where required.

“I think our duty as leaders is to be responsive and responsible to the expectations of the people,” he said.

Looking ahead to future political developments in Ogun State, Daniel called for leadership that is focused on collective progress rather than individual interests.

“We need a mature person who appreciates that beyond ego and self-consideration, it is time to look at the collective interest of the state,” he added.

On his defection from the PDP, Daniel said his decision was guided by ideological conviction rather than political convenience, noting his longstanding alignment with progressive politics, including his association with the AD-Afenifere movement.

He explained that his initial move to the PDP was driven by a perceived opportunity for growth within the party at the time, but internal party structures limited his aspirations.

Daniel described his entry into politics as motivated by a desire to accelerate development in Ogun State, which he characterised as underperforming prior to his administration.

He said his government prioritised infrastructure, agriculture, education and sports development, while also drawing inspiration from the policies of late nationalist Obafemi Awolowo, particularly in agriculture.

The former governor added that he has maintained political relationships across party lines, including with President Bola Tinubu and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.

On national issues, Daniel expressed support for ongoing economic reforms by the Tinubu administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy, which he described as necessary.

He also advocated the establishment of state police, arguing that decentralising the country’s security structure has become imperative amid ongoing security challenges such as banditry and insurgency.

Reflecting on his life at 70, Daniel said he remains grateful to God despite personal and professional challenges, noting that the milestone provided an opportunity for introspection, especially following the loss of several family members.

“When you look back, the only thing you can do is just to give thanks to God,” he said.