Dapo Abiodun, Gbenga Daniel lock horns over Ogun East senatorial ticket

A political clash is unfolding within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State as top party figures battle for control ahead of the 2027 elections.

The disagreement has brought Governor Dapo Abiodun and former governor turned senator Gbenga Daniel into open conflict over the Ogun East senatorial ticket.

The rivalry became more visible when Gbenga Daniel was prevented from attending a stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode.

The move is believed to be part of a wider struggle within the party, as both leaders are seen as strong contenders for the same Senate seat.

Tension rose at the meeting venue as Daniel’s supporters protested his exclusion, accusing party leaders of trying to impose a preferred candidate. Chants rejecting what they described as an unfair consensus echoed around the area.

The meeting, which was scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m., took a dramatic turn when security officials refused Daniel and his team entry.

The order was reportedly given by the Chairman of Odogbolu Local Government, Babatunde Diya, who said he was acting on instructions from higher authorities.

Addressing his supporters outside the venue, Daniel insisted that his exclusion was politically motivated.

He argued that any outcome from the meeting should not be taken seriously since he, as the sitting senator, was denied participation.

Despite the controversy, a coalition of political stakeholders across Ogun East later announced their support for Governor Abiodun as the APC’s candidate for the 2027 senatorial election.

The endorsement was made at a high-level meeting attended by party leaders, including councillors, lawmakers, council chairmen, commissioners, and other key figures in the district.

Speaking on behalf of lawmakers from Odogbolu, Bello Olatunde Sikiru said the decision to back Abiodun was based on his achievements and leadership record.

Similarly, Kunle Sobukanla, representing Ikenne, said members of the State House of Assembly in Ogun East believe the governor has earned the right to move to the Senate.