APC Crisis Intensifies in Ogun State Over Senatorial District Ticket
A significant political crisis is unfolding within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, as former governor and current senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Gbenga Daniel, was denied entry into a party stakeholders' forum in Ijebu-Ode yesterday. This incident highlights the escalating rift between Daniel and Governor Dapo Abiodun, who are locked in a fierce battle for the party's senatorial ticket in the district ahead of the 2027 elections.
Denial of Entry Sparks Tension and Protests
According to sources, the denial of entry was orchestrated by the Chairman of Odogbolu Local Council, Babatunde Diya, who claimed to be following directives from higher authorities. Security guards at the venue were instructed to prevent Senator Daniel from entering the hall, leading to heightened tensions as his supporters chanted "no Kangaroo consensus" outside. The meeting, scheduled for 10:00 a.m., took a dramatic turn with this exclusion, underscoring the deep divisions within the party.
Daniel addressed his loyalists outside the venue, accusing his political opponents in the APC of masterminding the barricade. He asserted that any decisions made in his absence would be null and void, emphasizing his right as the sitting senator to participate in the caucus meeting. "We are here for our Ogun East APC caucus meeting, but surprisingly, we have been barred. Let it be said that whatever they do here today is null and void," he declared, reinforcing his stance against what he perceives as undemocratic maneuvers.
Broad Coalition Endorses Abiodun as Consensus Candidate
In a contrasting development, a broad coalition of political stakeholders across Ogun East Senatorial District has unanimously endorsed Governor Dapo Abiodun as the APC's candidate for the 2027 senatorial election. This endorsement was announced at a high-level senatorial district meeting, garnering support from a wide array of party leaders and office holders. The coalition includes:
- 103 councillors
- Members of the House of Assembly
- Council chairmen
- Commissioners and political appointees
- Women leaders
- Former public office holders
Bello Olatunde Sikiru, Leader of the House from Odogbolu Local Council, spoke on behalf of legislative leaders in Ogun East, affirming their collective decision to back Abiodun's transition to the Senate. He cited the governor's developmental strides and leadership track record as key reasons for the endorsement. Similarly, Kunle Sobukanla, representing Ikenne, conveyed the position of all Ogun East members in the State House of Assembly, emphasizing that Abiodun's performance in office justifies his endorsement for higher legislative responsibility.
Implications for APC Unity and Future Elections
This unfolding crisis threatens to fracture APC unity in Ogun State, with potential repercussions for the party's prospects in the 2027 elections. The clash between Daniel and Abiodun reflects broader tensions over power dynamics and candidate selection processes within the party. As stakeholders align behind different factions, the situation underscores the challenges of maintaining cohesion in a politically charged environment.
The denial of entry to a sitting senator and the subsequent endorsement of a rival candidate highlight the intense competition for influence and control. Observers note that such internal conflicts could weaken the APC's electoral appeal if not resolved amicably. The coming months are likely to see further political maneuvering as both camps vie for dominance in Ogun East Senatorial District.
