In a recent development, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State took a firm stance on the partial demolition of DATKEM Plaza, a property owned by his predecessor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and his wife, Olufunke Daniel.
The Ogun State Government executed the demolition on Sunday, September 10, 2023, in the Ijebu Ode area, which was justified by the state's Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, citing numerous building code violations and structural defects.
The Ministry revealed that prior attempts were made to halt further development, but the developers should have considered these. In response, Olufunke Daniel, through her legal representative, decried the act as executive recklessness, underlining significant financial losses incurred.
Addressing the issue on Monday, September 11, 2023, Governor Abiodun asserted that neither Otunba Gbenga Daniel nor his wife were exempt from the law. He emphasised that the demolition was executed by the state's regulations and not influenced by political motives.
Abiodun stated, "The owners of DATKEM, in their minds, must have felt they were above the law." He pointed out that despite contravention and sealing orders issued by the Ministry of Physical Planning, construction persisted, endangering the safety of Ogun State residents. The governor condemned attempts to subvert regulations through bribery and nighttime construction, emphasising that accountability would prevail.
He expressed disappointment in Senator Daniel's conduct, urging him to exhibit higher responsibility. Governor Abiodun issued a stern warning to property owners lacking Certificates of Occupancy, emphasising his intolerance for lawlessness. He affirmed that any property without proper building approval would face demolition.
This incident serves as a resolute statement by Governor Abiodun, underscoring his commitment to upholding building standards and regulations in Ogun State.
