The Ogun State government has refuted claims made by Segun Sowunmi, a PDP stalwart, that Governor Dapo Abiodun was responsible for losing the N19 billion Dangote Refinery project to Lagos State.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Kunle Somorin, it was clarified that the previous administration of Senator Ibikunle Amosun was to blame for killing the project and frustrating the promoter of Dangote Refinery out of the state.

The statement emphasized that Ogun State was originally considered the most suitable location for the refinery in the Olokola Free Trade Zone.

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The Amosun administration had made efforts to ensure the realization of the Olokola deep-sea port and other related projects, including engaging Dangote Group.

However, between 2011 and 2019, the subsequent government obstructed the project for reasons known to them, effectively driving the promoter of Dangote Refinery away from the state.

Governor Abiodun, who had served as the Chairman of the Committee on the Olokola Free Trade Zone projects during Amosun’s first term, made significant efforts to advance the project.

The former governor opposed and frustrated his efforts. The current administration under Governor Abiodun has expressed regret over the missed opportunity and has been actively seeking to reawaken the OKFTZ.