Senator Gbenga Daniel, the former Governor of Ogun State and current Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026. He alleged that there were plans to orchestrate violence against his supporters.
Political Dispute with Governor Abiodun
Daniel, who is seeking re-election, has been embroiled in a political dispute with Governor Dapo Abiodun over the Ogun East senatorial ticket ahead of the 2027 elections. Tensions between the two camps have escalated in recent days, with loyalists of both leaders trading accusations.
Statement from BATOGD Movement
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu–Otunba Gbenga Daniel (BATOGD) Movement, Daniel instructed his supporters to stay away from the primary election. The group cited security concerns and alleged threats from agents linked to the state government.
The statement, jointly signed by the Director General of BATOGD, Olumuyiwa Okunowo (rtd), and 34 others, noted that unusual movements and the reported presence of miscreants had heightened concerns about possible violence. “In the last few days we have seen all manners of strange movements and miscreants taking positions and ready to strike down our people. We have heard and seen agents of the state government threatening fire and brimstone against our supporters, and the elections yesterday is a confirmation of our worst fears,” the statement read.
The group further stated that it could not put its supporters at risk. “On this note, we have advised our Principal, His Excellency, Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, to distance himself from the senatorial party primary elections. We also hereby advise our supporters to stay away from the venues of the senatorial party primary election of Monday, May 18, 2026, for their own safety,” the statement added.
Media Aide Confirms Withdrawal
Steve Oliyide, the media aide to the senator, confirmed that Daniel supported the decision to pull out of the race. “Yes, because we cannot put our supporters in harm’s way. Their safety is more of our concern than the contest. If the party is ready to conduct a free and fair election and can guarantee the safety of our members, then we are game,” Oliyide said.
