By Our Correspondent
Ogun State was thrust into the national spotlight on Tuesday as women in Ijebu-Ode took to the streets in protest against what they described as unpopular actions and policies of the state government, reigniting broader concerns about governance, civil liberties, and the rule of law in the Gateway State.
The peaceful protest, while firmly within the bounds of democratic expression, has opened a wider conversation about what critics say is a troubling pattern of intimidation, victimisation, and administrative failures confronting residents of Ogun State.
In recent weeks, reports circulating in public discourse have raised alarm. These include allegations that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) intimidated a cleric, and claims that the Nigeria Police threatened the arrest of a citizen, identified as Lady Adetoun, over what many observers consider a purely civil dispute. Though authorities have yet to issue comprehensive public explanations on these incidents, they have contributed to growing unease among citizens and civil society groups.
Adding to the controversy are claims of political victimisation involving prominent political figures, including a former governor of the state, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and a serving senator. Party insiders have also alleged that members were coerced into swearing oaths of loyalty—an accusation that, if substantiated, would represent a serious breach of democratic norms and internal party freedoms.
Perhaps the most emotionally charged issue remains an alleged statement attributed to the Governor of Ogun State, in which Ogun indigenes were reportedly described in demeaning terms. The governor has not formally clarified or denied the remark, but the allegation has provoked widespread outrage, with many residents describing such language as unacceptable and incompatible with the dignity of public office.
Reacting to these developments, Rt. Hon. Oludare Kadiri (Maba), former Deputy Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, issued a strongly worded statement warning that the state must not be allowed to slide into what he described as “intimidation and misgovernance.”
“This is not leadership. This is not democratic governance,” Kadiri said, adding that unchecked abuse of power threatens the foundations of democracy and social cohesion in the state.
Ogun State, often celebrated for its long history of intellectual courage, political activism, and resistance to oppression, now finds itself at a critical juncture. Analysts note that how the government responds to these allegations—through transparency, dialogue, and respect for due process—will determine whether public confidence can be restored.
As voices continue to rise from Ijebu-Ode and beyond, many residents insist that this moment calls for truth, courage, and clarity from those in authority.
For now, one message echoes across the state: Ogun State must not descend into fear. Its people are watching, speaking, and demanding better governance—and they insist the time to listen is now.
