Tinubu hails Gbenga Daniel as loyal ally at 70, backs call for amnesty on repatriated funds
By Henry Umoru
ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described former Ogun State governor, Gbenga Daniel, as a “longtime ally and friend,” praising his contributions to governance, business, and national development.
Tinubu made the remarks in Abuja during a book launch held at the Yar’Adua Centre to mark Daniel’s 70th birthday.
Represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the President commended Daniel’s achievements, noting that his career reflects hard work, resilience, and dedication.
“I salute Otunba Daniel for his professional exploits, governance strides, and political achievements, which he attained through hard work, wisdom, and courage,” Tinubu said.
The event drew prominent Nigerians, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, as well as lawmakers, traditional rulers, and business leaders.
Four books were unveiled at the ceremony, including Daniel in the Lions’ Den and My March through the Courts, chronicling aspects of Daniel’s personal and political journey.
Tinubu noted that Daniel distinguished himself in the private sector through the establishment of Kresta Laurel, an electro-mechanical engineering firm, before transitioning into public service as governor of Ogun State in 2003. He highlighted key initiatives of Daniel’s administration, including infrastructure development, public-private partnerships, and the establishment of the Tai Solarin University of Education.
He also recalled Daniel’s role in the political coalition that supported his emergence as Lagos State governor in 1999, describing him as a committed progressive.
In his remarks, Daniel, who represents Ogun East Senatorial District in the Senate, proposed that the Federal Government consider granting a structured amnesty to Nigerians who repatriate illicit funds held abroad, provided such funds are invested in productive sectors of the economy.
He said capital flight remains a major challenge, depriving Nigeria of critical development resources.
“As a pragmatic step, government could consider a well-structured amnesty on repatriation of such funds, provided they are invested productively within the country,” he said.
Daniel also highlighted broader national issues, including corruption, misinformation, and declining ethical standards in public service. He called for a more systemic approach to tackling corruption, including the effective use of financial intelligence tools and stronger institutional accountability.
On youth development, he urged increased investment in skills, technology, and creative industries, warning that failure to engage young people meaningfully could hinder national progress.
Daniel further supported ongoing discussions on state policing, suggesting safeguards such as State Police Councils to ensure accountability.
Reviewing some of the books, Reuben Abati encouraged Nigerians to document their experiences, noting that such works provide valuable insights into the country’s political history.
Also speaking, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire described My March through the Courts as a compelling account of Daniel’s legal battles and eventual acquittal, recommending it to readers interested in Nigeria’s political and judicial landscape.
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