Segun Showunmi, a governorship aspirant of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in the upcoming 2023 election, expressed his disappointment and attributed the loss of the refinery to "bad politics." Showunmi called for legislation that would punish economic sabotage resulting from political maneuvering. In a statement, he emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "No one should be allowed to set back a state on the altar of winning an election, which more than likely has queried integrity."
Showunmi further questioned the rationale behind Ogun State's failure to secure the project, which was in line with the Ogun Development Master Plan, including the Olokola Free Trade Zone. He expressed gratitude that the project remained within Nigeria, avoiding the scenario of it being taken abroad. However, he stressed the need for measures to prevent a repeat of such missed opportunities.
Responding swiftly to the criticisms, Governor Dapo Abiodun distanced himself from the loss of the Dangote Refinery to Lagos. He attributed the situation to a disagreement between former Governor Ibikunle Amosun and Aliko Dangote, the business mogul behind the refinery project. Abiodun clarified that during his tenure as Chairman of the Committee on the Olokola Free Trade Zone projects, he had exerted significant effort to ensure the success of the project.
The governor's Chief Press Secretary released a statement acknowledging Abiodun's proactive stance and his attempts to bring the refinery project to fruition. The statement indicated that the previous administration, from 2011 to 2019, hindered the project and frustrated Dangote's involvement in Ogun State. The governor expressed regret over the missed opportunity and reiterated his commitment to reviving the Olokola Free Trade Zone, emphasizing its untapped potential for the state.
The controversy surrounding the relocation of the Dangote Refinery underscores the complex interplay between politics and economic development. As stakeholders engage in blame games, it becomes evident that collaborative efforts and clear governance strategies are crucial to attracting and retaining large-scale investments. The loss of such a significant project raises concerns about the economic growth and competitiveness of Ogun State in the long term.
Moving forward, it is imperative for all stakeholders, including political leaders and business entities, to work together to create an enabling environment for investment and economic development. This requires transparent decision-making processes, long-term planning, and a commitment to prioritize the interests of the state and its people.
As Ogun State grapples with the repercussions of losing the Dangote Refinery to Lagos, it is hoped that valuable lessons will be learned and applied to future investment opportunities. The state must strive to regain its competitive edge and ensure that similar incidents do not recur. Only through collaboration, accountability, and visionary leadership can Ogun State position itself as an attractive destination for major investments, fostering sustainable growth and prosperity for its citizens.