…says equity will strengthen unity, trust across the state
As Ogun State marks its Golden Jubilee, prominent industrialist and community leader, Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, popularly known as IBD Dende, has called for a more inclusive future anchored on a well-structured rotational leadership arrangement.
Chief Egungbohun, who is the Chairman of IBD Impex Ltd and the Olu-Omo of Yewaland, said deliberate steps must be taken to address long-standing political imbalances that have denied Ogun West its fair share in the state’s leadership structure.
In a goodwill message to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Ogun State’s creation, the business mogul congratulated Governor Dapo Abiodun, CON, the people of the state, and critical stakeholders for their contributions to Ogun’s growth over the last five decades.
He also paid glowing tribute to traditional institutions across the state, acknowledging the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, HRM Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, MFR, alongside other royal fathers, elder statesmen, technocrats, and sons and daughters of Ogun State both at home and in the diaspora.
Describing the Golden Jubilee as a moment of celebration and reflection, Egungbohun said Ogun’s journey since its creation in 1976 has been defined by resilience, enterprise, and collective progress.
“Ogun State at 50 is a powerful reminder of how far we have come as a people—through hard work, unity, and shared vision,” he said.
He noted that the milestone should not only serve as a celebration of past achievements but also as a guide toward building a more equitable and just future.
Highlighting the contributions of the Egbado District, now known as Ogun West, Egungbohun stressed that the region has remained central to the state’s cultural heritage, educational advancement, and industrial development.
“From the earliest days of Ogun State, Ogun West has remained an indispensable pillar of our cultural identity, educational excellence, and industrial progress,” he stated.
“Our contributions are historic, consistent, and deeply woven into the Ogun story.”
Using the Ogun@50 celebration as a point of renewed commitment, the community leader urged political actors and decision-makers to embrace fairness, inclusion, and balanced representation, particularly in the state’s rotational leadership framework.
According to him, giving Ogun West fair political consideration would not only recognize the zone’s enduring contributions but also strengthen unity and trust across the state.
“Ogun at 50 presents a unique opportunity to recommit to justice, fairness, and inclusive governance,” he said.
“A future built on equity will ensure that every zone feels a true sense of belonging in the Ogun project.”
Ogun State is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial and educational hubs, driven by a fast-growing economy and rich cultural heritage. Egungbohun acknowledged that these achievements were made possible through the collective efforts of all regions and communities.
As Golden Jubilee celebrations continue across the state, his message adds momentum to ongoing conversations around unity, balanced development, and inclusive governance.
For Egungbohun and many stakeholders, the next chapter of Ogun State must be defined not only by economic advancement but also by fairness, representation, and shared prosperity—especially for Ogun West.