The Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended its decision to suspend former governor and current senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, after accusations that he engaged in actions against the party during the Remo Federal Constituency by-election in August. The party confirmed that due process was followed and noted that the time allowed for appeal has already expired.
The suspension has sparked protests from several APC leaders in Ogun East, who held a press briefing at Daniel’s residence in Sagamu. They argued that the suspension was unfair, politically motivated, and aimed at limiting Daniel’s chances for the Ogun East senatorial ticket in the 2027 elections. The group questioned why Daniel had not received an official suspension letter and raised concerns over inconsistencies in the details of his membership registration. They also alleged that some party executives were compromised, raising doubts about the fairness of future internal party elections.
Daniel’s aides insisted that the senator remained loyal to the APC, noting that he supported the party’s campaigns financially and through active participation, and dismissed claims of anti-party activities. They also pointed out that tensions with the state governor began after Daniel showed interest in the Ogun East senatorial seat in 2022 and recalled his support for the governor’s 2019 election bid. The aides appealed to the APC national leadership and President Bola Tinubu to intervene and restructure the state executive.
In response, the APC state spokesperson rejected the press briefing and statements from Daniel’s supporters, describing the participants as coordinators of Daniel’s private foundation rather than legitimate party leaders. The party maintained that Daniel had repeatedly disregarded party rules, faced credible allegations of working against the party, and that his suspension followed the proper procedure, including endorsement by the State Working Committee. The party insisted that the suspension stands and that supporters are free to express their grievances on social media.
The conflict between Daniel and the state APC leadership reflects ongoing tensions within the party as members prepare for the 2027 general elections, with questions about internal governance, loyalty, and political influence continuing to divide local leaders.