APC National Leadership Intervenes in Ogun State Political Crisis
The National Working Committee (NWC) of Nigeria's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially declared that Senator Gbenga Daniel remains a legitimate member of the party, directly countering his suspension by the Ogun State chapter.
In a dramatic political development that highlights internal party tensions, the APC national leadership has stepped in to protect the status of the former Ogun State governor and current senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District.
Contradictory Positions Emerge
The political crisis erupted when the Ogun State APC leadership, under Chairman Yemi Sanusi, reportedly suspended Senator Daniel and another party member, Kunle Folarin, over allegations of anti-party activities. The state party leadership demanded that both appear before a disciplinary committee to address the accusations.
Femi Nuberu, the APC Director of Publicity in Ogun State, maintained that Daniel's suspension remains valid and enforceable. He insisted that the window for appeal before the disciplinary committee had already lapsed, suggesting the senator had missed his opportunity to challenge the decision at the state level.
National Secretariat Steps In
However, the party's national leadership swiftly moved to assert its authority. In a formal letter dated November 17, 2025, and addressed to the Ogun State Chairman Yemi Sanusi, the APC National Secretary Surajudeen Ajibola Bashiru declared the suspension invalid.
The national secretary expressed surprise at the state chapter's actions, emphasizing that the NWC had not been consulted or given opportunity to deliberate on the matter as required by the party's constitution.
Bashiru specifically referenced Articles 21.3 (d & e) of the APC constitution, which outline proper disciplinary procedures that must involve the national working committee.
The letter contained a clear directive: "You are hereby requested to allow the National Working Committee to investigate the matter and take an informed decision on the suspension before issuing any further public correspondence on this matter."
Until the NWC completes its investigation and makes a final determination, Senator Olugbenga Daniel remains a bona fide member of the APC, according to the national secretariat's position.
Constitutional Showdown Looms
This development sets the stage for a potential constitutional confrontation within the ruling party. The Ogun State chapter now faces pressure to comply with the national leadership's directive while maintaining its original position.
The situation represents a significant test of party discipline and the hierarchy of authority within the APC structure. Political observers will be watching closely to see how the state chapter responds to what amounts to a direct order from the party's national headquarters.
This incident also highlights the ongoing political tensions in Ogun State, where internal party dynamics often reflect broader political alignments and ambitions ahead of future elections.
