Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
The Movement for Social and Economic Justice has called for fairness, transparency and strict adherence to due process in Ogun State’s recent enforcement of property regulations, urging Governor Dapo Abiodun to ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done.
In a statement released in Abeokuta, the group recalled the Yoruba maxim made popular by music legend Chief Ebenezer Obey in honour of the late Chief Akin Olugbade: “Ka to fi eniyan joye laarin ilu, o ni lati je eni rere” meaning, “Before a person is given honour in the community, they must be of good character.” The group said this timeless philosophy should guide leadership and governance in the state.
According to the movement, recent political and administrative developments have raised concerns over what it described as “retroactive application of the law” and the “perceived targeting of individuals” ahead of the 2027 political season.
The group questioned the legality and fairness of citing a law passed in 2022 as the basis for contraventions and demolitions in 2025, affecting buildings reportedly constructed as far back as 2004, 2013, and 2015, all of which, they claimed, had the requisite approvals at the time of construction.
“This development,” the group said, “raises questions about whether the enforcement is rooted in law and justice or political machinations. The principle of Omoluabi calls for fairness and respect for due process, even in the heat of political differences.”
Citing examples, the movement pointed to notices of contravention and quit notices recently issued on properties linked to Senator Gbenga Daniel, including the Asoludero Court, the Conference Hotel, and its annex in Sagamu. The group warned that such actions could be seen as reckless and a misuse of executive authority if not handled with transparency and legal clarity.
They also referenced the controversial midnight demolition of the Datkem Shopping Complex in Ijebu-Ode in 2023, which the group described as “still fresh in public memory.” According to them, repeating such incidents risks damaging public trust in the administration’s commitment to equity and justice.
The statement noted that Ogun State has a long history of political rivalry, but stressed that governance must rise above personal or partisan battles to ensure the protection of rights and the rule of law.
“We must remember that political power is transient,” the group said, drawing historical parallels to leaders like Julius Caesar and Napoleon Bonaparte, whose influence eventually waned. “What endures is the legacy of fairness, justice, and the people’s trust.”
The Movement for Social and Economic Justice called on Governor Abiodun to intervene personally to ensure that any enforcement actions follow due process, are consistent with existing legal frameworks, and are not retroactive in a manner that undermines the rule of law.
They urged the state government to adopt dialogue and legal clarity in resolving disputes over property rights, noting that economic and political stability depend on an atmosphere of fairness and predictability.
“The hallmark of great leadership,” the statement concluded, “is the ability to win political battles without compromising justice. Ogun State can and must set a national example in this regard.”
