4th March, 2024
By Oluwapelumi Oluwayemi
Social media erupted with controversy after Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has secured the ‘Silverbird Man of The Year’ award, beating his rivals.
The ceremony took place on March 3rd at the Convention Center, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Abiodun emerged victorious after outshining four other nominees in a rigorous voting process, garnering 70 percent of the votes, according to a statement by Jacob Akinyemi Johnson, the Chief Creative Officer/Chairman Editorial Board of Silverbird Group.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Abiodun stated on his Twitter page that receiving the award affirmed his administration’s steadfast commitment to forging a brighter future for the people of Ogun State.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Silverbird group for recognising our efforts and honouring us with this unique award. This recognition serves as a significant motivation for us to continue striving for the betterment of Ogun State and to make a positive impact on humanity… pic.twitter.com/w1XiA6HUz5
— Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun – MFR, CON (@dabiodunMFR) March 4, 2024
He emphasized the administration’s focus on good governance over the years, attributing the honour to their sincere and dedicated efforts towards this goal.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Silverbird group for recognising our efforts and honouring us with this unique award. This recognition serves as a significant motivation for us to continue striving for the betterment of Ogun State and to make a positive impact on humanity… pic.twitter.com/w1XiA6HUz5
— Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun – MFR, CON (@dabiodunMFR) March 4, 2024
However, the award stirred controversy among social media users who questioned its merit.
Some criticized the criteria, suggesting it favoured monetary influence over genuine achievement.
Owo Canada: “This 202_ Dapo has more awards than Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy and Asake in combined”.
Senator 8790: “I am sure this award isn’t based on merit, it’s just the highest bidder that will get the award. This is the only Governor of Ogun State that has underperformed for me. Don’t even know the criteria for the award”.
Others pointed to perceived shortcomings in Abiodun’s governance, citing issues such as infrastructure deficiencies in Ogun State.
Okey TMC: “Man of the Year for doing what precisely? Embezzling local government funds. It seems the award is up for grabs for the highest bidder”.
Mama Dorly: “Ogun State had one of the worst roads in Nigeria”.
Yobak: “This one just dey use money buy award up and down with nothing to showcase for it”.
Comparisons were drawn with other governors, like Governor Sanwo Olu, who they believed were more deserving of recognition.
Senator 8790: “Governor Sanwo Olu is there you didn’t give him Governor of the year but Eleyi who has brought little or no development to Ogun State is getting an award. This life no just balance”.