Moves to maintain unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State are facing fresh strain following parallel moves by Senator Gbenga Daniel and Governor Dapo Abiodun over the Ogun East senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 elections.
Daniel, who currently represents Ogun East in the Senate, on Tuesday picked up his expression of interest and nomination forms, signalling his intention to seek re-election despite an earlier consensus arrangement within the party.
Confirming his decision, the former governor said, “Today, I picked up my nomination and expression of interest forms as I seek to return to the Nigerian Senate, continuing my efforts to provide effective and responsive representation for the people of Ogun East Senatorial District under the platform of the APC.”
His move came hours after Abiodun formally declared interest in the same seat, following his adoption as the consensus candidate by APC stakeholders at a meeting in Ijebu-Ode.
“We sincerely appreciate this overwhelming show of confidence and support. It is a responsibility we do not take lightly,” Abiodun said. “I want to assure you that I will offer Ogun East the best representation ever in the history of the red chamber.”
The endorsement, reached at a stakeholders’ meeting held at Adeola Odutola Hall, was described by party leaders as a unanimous decision involving grassroots representatives, lawmakers, councillors, and youth and women groups.
However, the process has been trailed by controversy after Daniel was reportedly denied access to the venue of the meeting. In a video that circulated widely, the senator expressed frustration over the development.
“We have been here for our Ogun East APC caucus meeting since 10am, but surprisingly, we have been barred. We are told that we can’t enter,” he said.
Supporters of Daniel under the BATOGD Movement rejected the consensus arrangement, alleging that it was designed to sideline their principal.
Describing the process as flawed, the group’s spokesperson, retired General Olumuyiwa Okunowo, said it amounted to “a carefully orchestrated exclusion” that violated party guidelines on consensus candidacy.
Meanwhile, party stakeholders backing Abiodun insist the endorsement reflects a collective decision aimed at strengthening the APC’s chances in the district.
With both camps now holding firm positions, the development sets the stage for a potential showdown within the Ogun East APC structure, raising fresh questions about party cohesion ahead of the 2027 political cycle.
