Drama in Ogun East APC as Abiodun Gets 2027 Senate Nod, Gbenga Daniel Shut Out

A meeting of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Ogun East was marked by controversy on Monday, as Governor Dapo Abiodun secured unanimous endorsement for the 2027 Senate race while incumbent senator, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, was denied access to the venue.

The endorsement was made public in a statement issued in Abeokuta following a large stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode attended by party leaders, elected officials, and grassroots actors across the senatorial district. The decision signals an emerging alignment within the party ahead of the next general elections.

Held at Adeola Odutola Hall, the gathering featured members of the Governor’s Advisory Council, legislators, local government officials, ward executives, councillors, as well as youth and women leaders. Organisers described the turnout as evidence of a “broad-based consensus.”

The event, however, was overshadowed by a confrontation outside the venue, where Senator Daniel was reportedly prevented from entering. Supporters at the scene voiced their displeasure, intensifying tensions within the party.

Addressing the situation, Daniel said:

“We are here for our Ogun East APC caucus meeting, but surprisingly, we have been barred. Let it be on record that whatever they do here today is null and void.”

Inside the hall, party leaders proceeded with deliberations, affirming Governor Abiodun as their consensus candidate.

Former senator Lekan Mustapha announced:

“We will formally communicate this decision to the governor and constitute a team to deliver the message. He has been adopted as our consensus candidate.”

“He is a man of proven character and intellect, well-positioned to represent Ogun East at the national level.”

Also speaking, Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, described the move as historic.

“This endorsement is historic and unanimous. It reflects our collective belief that Prince Dapo Abiodun is the right choice for the Senate,” he said.

Support for the governor was echoed by other leaders. Hon. Femi Ogunbanwo noted:

“The governor has delivered peace and development across the state. We are confident he will attract greater dividends of democracy to Ogun East at the national level.”

Sagamu Local Government Chairman, Afolabi Odulate, added:

“This is a collective appeal from the entire district. We believe in his leadership and capacity.”

Meanwhile, allies of Senator Daniel rejected the endorsement, describing it as lacking legitimacy.

His media aide, Steve Oliyide, said:

“What happened there was nothing but a jamboree and self-endorsement.”

“Can you name a child in his absence? The person being endorsed wasn’t even there to receive it.”

He further argued:

“This was a gathering of individuals on the government’s payroll. It cannot be taken as a true reflection of the party’s position.”

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