On September 25, 2026, hundreds of residents from across Ogun State gathered at the Governor's Office in Abeokuta to stage a peaceful protest. The protesters, representing 20 local government areas, were organized under the group Make Ogun State Great Again (MOGA). They presented a list of demands to the government, including improved infrastructure, reduced taxation, better healthcare services, employment opportunities, and increased access to resources at the grassroots level.
The convener of MOGA, Olawoye Kayode, addressed the protesters, stating that the group represented various stakeholders, including artisans, market women, youths, and elderly residents. These individuals, according to Kayode, were struggling with the rising cost of living and inadequate public infrastructure. The protesters arrived at the demonstration barefoot, symbolizing the hardship experienced by many communities in the state.
Kayode alleged that many communities had not benefited from government programs, citing poor roads, multiple taxation, unemployment, and inadequate healthcare facilities as major challenges. He called for an end to what he described as "political slavery," emphasizing that the state's resources should translate into tangible benefits for its residents. The MOGA leader demanded greater transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.
The protesters' demands included the immediate rehabilitation of roads and infrastructure in underserved communities, an end to multiple taxation affecting small-scale traders and transport workers, and a transparent framework for allocating resources to communities. They also sought greater financial autonomy for local governments and adequate resources for local councils to address grassroots needs.
Responding to the protesters on behalf of the state government, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AIG Olushola Zubair (rtd.), commended the peaceful nature of the demonstration. Zubair assured the protesters that their demands would be conveyed to Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was unavailable due to other official engagements. He acknowledged the concerns raised and promised that the government would consider their grievances.
Zubair stated that the government had recently approved road reconstruction and construction projects across the state, with some projects already underway. He urged the protesters to maintain peace and ensure that the demonstration was not hijacked by hoodlums, encouraging them to remain law-abiding while the government considered their demands.
The protest was attended by representatives from various communities, including God Is Great Community, Toluwalase Community, and Onaolapo Community, among others. The demonstration highlighted the widespread frustration with the current state of infrastructure and economic conditions in Ogun State.
Key points
- The protesters demanded relief from poor infrastructure and excessive taxation.
- The government acknowledged the concerns raised and promised to consider the grievances.
- The protest was peaceful, with representatives from 20 local government areas in attendance.
