Between June 12 and Partisan Flip-Flops, OGD is Real Progressive-Folake Sokoya

In a blistering retort, the Ogun State Progressive Alliance has blasted Governor Dapo Abiodun’s attempt to don the mantle of a “Progressive,” accusing him of historical distortion and opportunistic politics.

“How dare Dapo Abiodun, a man who began his political journey during the Abacha transition, suddenly claim to embody Progressive ideals?” the Alliance thundered. The group reminded the public that genuine progressivism isn’t a title to be grabbed, it’s earned, through principled stands and historical consistency.

“That’s the same man who aligned himself with an authoritarian era, yet now wants us to believe he was part of the June 12 struggle?” they challenged. No credible records tie Abiodun to any democracy-advocacy actions.

In stark contrast, Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s credentials are unmistakable: as governor, he was a staunch financier of NADECO, offering both cash and moral support to those fighting for June 12, and backing Afenifere’s push for democracy.

The Alliance pulled no punches: “OGD was on the side of freedom, not autocracy. He brought peace to Yorubaland during violent infighting between factions of the OPC, between Gani Adams and Dr. Frederick Faseun, towarding a united, peaceful Southwest. What has Abiodun contributed in that arena?”

They further noted OGD’s political sacrifices: “He was only compelled to join the PDP with the blessing of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, then Lagos State Governor, when certain AD elders refused to allow a younger man to rise.” And even within PDP ranks, OGD earned the moniker “Afenifere PDP”, owing to his demonstrable loyalty to Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive legacy.

Recent developments only vindicate the Alliance’s claims. Gbenga Daniel’s recent suspension from APC over alleged anti-party activities reflects a man driven by principle, not party convenience If anything, his suspension underscores the dismantling of his political capital, yet it hasn’t shaken his commitment to progressive ideals.

By contrast, Abiodun’s political narrative smacks of expediency. Last June, he welcomed key opposition members from PDP and APM into his fold, a move analysts see more as political consolidation than ideological alignment.

In the Alliance’s words: “Progressive politics is not built on opportunistic alliances or party switches, it stands on sacrifice, consistency, and history. On all counts, Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD) towers above Dapo Abiodun.”

It’s not mere politics, it’s a battle for Ogun’s historical truth. One man stands stained by his past and party maneuverings; the other, grounded in democratic struggle and Yoruba unity.

For relentless focus on progressive authenticity and principled leadership, the Alliance urges the public to look beyond flashy narratives and ask: “Who truly advanced the dream of June 12? Who healed the wounds of Yoruba land? That person is the real Progressive.”