Police Barricade Senator Gbenga Daniel's Residence, Disrupt Political Rally in Ijebu-Ode
The political rift between Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District, escalated dramatically as police personnel stormed the senator's residence and allegedly disrupted a planned meeting with his supporters. This incident occurred on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in Ijebu-Ode, marking a new dimension in the ongoing battle between the two political figures.
Heavy Security Presence at Daniel's Residence
Security forces, including an Armoured Personnel Carrier, cordoned off the residence of the former governor at the Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Ijebu-Ode. This action took place just as Daniel's supporters were gathering for the BATOGD Community Assessment and Review rally, a grassroots political platform. The rally was designed to drum up support for President Bola Tinubu's second-term bid and Daniel's return to the Senate in 2027.
The heavy police presence allegedly scared away BATOGD supporters, preventing them from accessing the venue. An aide to Senator Daniel reported that police operatives stormed Obanta Club and blocked access to Daniel's house to stop the planned meeting. The aide stated, "Police stormed Obanta Club and blocked OGD's house to stop access to the venue of the planned BATOGD Community Assessment and Review Tour in Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday, April 22, 2026."
Disruption of Empowerment Programme
The disrupted programme was an initiative of Senator Daniel under the Gateway Front Foundation, aimed at empowering people in his constituency. It was expected to benefit no fewer than 10,000 beneficiaries across the Ogun East Senatorial District. However, distraught participants and organisers could not access the venue due to the police blockade, leaving the empowerment efforts in limbo.
This development has deepened the long-running battle between Governor Abiodun and Senator Daniel, both members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the race for the Ogun East senatorial seat. The incident highlights the intense political competition and tensions within the party as the 2027 elections approach.
Political Implications and Reactions
The barricade and disruption of the rally have sparked concerns about political freedom and the use of security forces in electoral matters. Supporters of Senator Daniel view this as a deliberate attempt to stifle his political activities and undermine his senatorial bid. On the other hand, authorities have not yet provided an official statement on the reasons for the police action.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will affect the dynamics within the APC in Ogun State and the broader political landscape leading up to the 2027 elections. The incident underscores the high stakes involved in the senatorial race and the potential for further confrontations between key political players.
