Speaking during his 70th birthday thanksgiving service in Sagamu, Daniel didn’t hold back as he described Amosun as a tough and aggressive successor who made life hard for him after taking over power in 2011. According to him, their fallout was largely driven by Amosun’s strong desire to become governor at all costs.
Daniel explained that because he wasn’t seen as fully backing Amosun’s ambition, things quickly turned sour. Once Amosun assumed office, he allegedly went after Daniel, initiating actions that the former governor described as a “witch-hunt.”
Despite the rocky past, Daniel said both leaders have now moved beyond their differences. He noted that they have reconciled and are now focused on contributing positively to Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.
At the thanksgiving event, which was attended by notable personalities including Enoch Adeboye and representatives of Olusegun Obasanjo, Daniel humorously acknowledged Amosun’s presence, thanking him for attending and wishing him well.
Reflecting on their history, Daniel recalled how both men started their political journeys together under the same party. However, their relationship broke down ahead of the 2007 governorship election when Amosun left the party to contest against him. While Amosun lost that election, he eventually secured victory in 2011 and succeeded Daniel as governor.
After taking office, Amosun launched an investigation into Daniel’s administration, leading to a case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over alleged financial mismanagement amounting to billions of naira. The legal battle lasted for years before Daniel was eventually cleared of all charges.
Daniel expressed gratitude for the massive turnout at his birthday celebration, saying it reflected the goodwill he has built over decades of public service. He also shared optimism about Nigeria’s future and urged citizens to support the administration of Bola Tinubu.
During the service, Pastor Adeboye praised Daniel as a rare and principled leader, describing him as a true “Omoluwabi” who maintained a strong relationship with the church throughout his time in office.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy, also commended Daniel’s contributions to governance, noting that his legacy continues to impact the state’s development.
