Former Ogun Governor, Gbenga Daniel, has strongly criticized the demolition of his wife’s property in Ijebu Ode by the Ogun state government, labeling it as an act of executive recklessness, lawlessness, and irresponsibility. Daniel made these remarks in response to the demolition of DATKEM Plaza, a building owned by his wife, Olufunke Daniel, located on Folagbade Street, Ijebu Ode.
In a statement issued by his lawyer, Mr. Adeyinka Kotote (SAN) of P.A.G.E Law office, Daniel expressed shock and dismay that the state government disregarded court papers served on its agents on September 7, instructing them to cease all actions on the building.
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The statement explained that the matter began when the Ogun State Planning and Development Authority sealed the building on August 1 without prior notice. A quit notice was served only on August 31, asking the owner to vacate the premises within three days. DATKEM had applied for the unsealing and regularization of the building on August 2, paying the mandatory fee of N500,000 to the Ogun state government, with evidence of payment available.
However, despite the ongoing legal process, the Ogun state government proceeded with the demolition in the early hours of Sunday. The statement expressed disbelief that the government ignored the legal proceedings and emphasized that the clients, as law-abiding citizens, would continue seeking redress in the courts.
Daniel also indicated that he believed Governor Dapo Abiodun may not have been informed of the illegality, but if he was and still allowed it to occur, it would amount to executive recklessness. The statement reiterated their commitment to pursuing justice through legal means despite the significant losses incurred due to the illegal demolition.
