Moves to maintain unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State have come under pressure after Senator Gbenga Daniel and Governor Dapo Abiodun made parallel moves for the Ogun East senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 elections. The development has exposed fresh cracks within the party’s structure in the state.

Daniel, who currently represents Ogun East, picked up his expression of interest and nomination forms on Tuesday, signalling his intention to seek re-election.

Daniel Declares Re-Election Bid Despite Consensus Push

Confirming his move, the former governor said he remains committed to representing the district in the Senate. He described his decision as part of ongoing efforts to deliver effective and responsive representation under the APC platform.

“Today, I picked up my nomination and expression of interest forms as I seek to return to the Nigerian Senate,” he said.

Abiodun Emerges as Consensus Candidate in Ijebu-Ode

Hours earlier, Governor Dapo Abiodun had declared interest in the same seat after being adopted as the consensus candidate by APC stakeholders. The endorsement took place at a meeting held in Ijebu-Ode.

Abiodun welcomed the decision, describing it as a vote of confidence. He assured supporters that he would offer strong representation if elected.

Controversy Trails Stakeholders’ Meeting

The consensus process has, however, been trailed by controversy following claims that Daniel was denied access to the meeting venue. In a video that circulated online, the senator expressed frustration over being blocked from entering the gathering.

“We have been here since 10am, but we have been barred. We are told that we can’t enter,” he said.

Supporters Reject Consensus, Allege Exclusion

Supporters of Daniel under the BATOGD Movement have rejected the consensus arrangement, describing it as an attempt to sideline their candidate. The group argued that the process did not follow established party guidelines.

Spokesperson Olumuyiwa Okunowo said the move amounted to a deliberate exclusion, raising concerns over fairness within the party’s internal process.

Pro-Abiodun Camp Defends Decision

Stakeholders backing Abiodun insist the endorsement reflects a collective agreement by party members across the district. They maintain that the decision was aimed at strengthening the APC’s chances in the next election cycle.

The meeting was said to include grassroots leaders, lawmakers, councillors, and representatives of youth and women groups.