Ogun Govt fires back at Daniel, defends Federal takeover of TASUED
The Ogun State Government has issued a strong rebuttal to former Governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel following his criticisms of the recent federal acquisition of the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED).
Daniel, now serving as the Senator representing Ogun East, had on Thursday described Governor Dapo Abiodun as weak for consenting to the Federal Government’s takeover of the institution.
This response was contained in a statement issued by Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the Governor, who described Daniel’s remarks as part of a broader political agenda aimed at undermining the state leadership.
The statement, titled “TASUED’s Federal Acquisition: Senator Gbenga Daniel’s Political Theatre Falls Flat,” outlined the Ogun government’s position on the issue, portraying the senator’s outbursts as politically motivated and lacking in substance.
Akinmade rejected Daniel’s claims, asserting that the federal acquisition of TASUED, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was a strategic decision designed to enhance Ogun State’s educational development.
He further stated that the senator’s criticisms were laden with insinuations and distortions aimed at discrediting Governor Abiodun’s administration.
“One cannot help but question the true intent behind the senator’s widely publicised ‘open letter’ to Governor Abiodun—a document rife with distortions and insinuations. He accuses the governor of neglecting state-owned institutions, a claim that is easily disproven by verifiable evidence demonstrating increased investment, infrastructural improvements, and renewed dynamism across Ogun’s educational landscape,” Akinmade stated.
He further stressed that the decision to facilitate the transfer of TASUED was aligned with the federal government’s policy of ensuring an equitable distribution of federal institutions across Nigeria.
The Special Adviser went on to underscore the significant advancements made by the Abiodun administration in fortifying Ogun’s educational sector, noting that the state’s reputation as Nigeria’s educational hub was a direct result of sustained investments and progressive policies.
Akinmade also noted that with its new federal status, TASUED would now have access to TETFUND, increased budgetary allocations, and enhanced academic resources, all of which were vital for the institution’s continued progress.
“Under the Abiodun administration, Ogun’s educational sector has recorded tangible growth. TASUED itself has benefited from upgraded infrastructure and substantial funding. Now, with its new federal status, the institution stands to gain access to TETFUND, increased budgetary support, and strengthened academic manpower—all essential for long-term excellence,” Akinmade added.
The statement also took aim at Daniel’s tenure as Governor, questioning his ability to shape the state’s educational policies and suggesting that his criticisms lacked credibility.
It was recalled that Governor Abiodun had generously provided Daniel with political opportunities, access to state resources, and support for his senatorial campaign.
However, the Ogun State Government expressed confidence that the state was on a trajectory of progress, asserting that no amount of political theatrics could hinder its ongoing development.
