Political chants disrupt Gbenga Daniel’s mother-in-law burial service

A burial service for Chief Sabainah Ibironke Opawole, mother-in-law to former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel, was disrupted by political chants from supporters of rival governorship candidates. The incident occurred at Ibara Baptist Church in Abeokuta during tributes to the deceased.

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We are here to pay our last respects to my mother-in-law. This is not the appropriate place for political campaigns or slogans.

Supporters of Oladipupo Adebutu, a Peoples Democratic Party candidate, began chanting endorsements for his 2027 governorship bid. This was met with counter-chants from supporters of All Progressives Congress candidate Solomon Adeola, also backing his ambition. The atmosphere shifted from solemnity to political campaigning within the church service.

Former Governor Daniel intervened, appealing to the supporters to refrain from turning the church service into a political rally. He stressed the importance of respecting the occasion dedicated to honoring his mother-in-law. Later, while giving the vote of thanks, Daniel sought to ease tensions regarding the 2027 race. He assured the congregation that politics in Ogun State is typically conducted with maturity and without violence, despite the day's disruptions.

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While the service was ongoing, the pastors were a bit apprehensive because of our people who were shouting and singing, but I told them that there was nothing to be worried about.

Daniel encouraged the pastors not to worry, suggesting that future church gatherings might involve praying for aspiring leaders. He even called on the current governor, Dapo Abiodun, to lead Adebutu and Adeola to the dance floor, symbolizing a lack of animosity between the politicians.

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But I can assure you that in Ogun State, this is how we play the game. There’s no violence. As a matter of fact, the pastors should be praying that they should be coming to church, so that you can pray for them and they can be like you. So, men of God, please don’t get unnecessarily worried.