By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Tension gripped the political atmosphere in Ijebu Ode on Monday as a former Governor of Ogun State and current Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, was reportedly denied access to an All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting held at Adeola Odutola Hall.
The Merit Newspaper reports that the high-profile meeting, convened by party leaders within Ogun East Senatorial District, was expected to bring together key stakeholders to deliberate on party unity, structure, and emerging political alignments ahead of future electoral contests. However, the exclusion of Daniel—popularly known as OGD—quickly overshadowed proceedings and introduced a new layer of controversy within the party’s ranks.
Arriving at the venue in a white campaign-branded bus associated with the OGD/PBAT Movement, the senator was met with resistance at the entrance, as security operatives and organisers reportedly barred him and his entourage from gaining entry into the hall.
Addressing a crowd of visibly agitated supporters from the top of his campaign vehicle, Daniel did not mince words in expressing his displeasure over the development.
“We are here for our Ogun East APC caucus meeting, but surprisingly, we have been barred; we are told that we can’t enter. But let it be said that whatever they do here today is null and void,” he declared.
The incident has since sparked conversations among party faithful and political observers, with many questioning the internal cohesion of the APC in Ogun State. Analysts suggest that the move may not be unconnected to ongoing factional dynamics within the party, particularly in Ogun East, where competing interests have continued to shape political engagements.
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While organisers of the meeting are yet to issue an official statement regarding the senator’s exclusion, sources within the party hinted that the gathering may have been restricted to selected stakeholders, a claim that Daniel’s camp strongly disputes.
Supporters of the former governor, who gathered outside the venue, described the development as an affront to his status within the party and a dangerous signal of deepening divisions. Some warned that such actions could undermine efforts at reconciliation and weaken the party’s grassroots appeal in the region.
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Political watchers note that Daniel remains a significant figure in Ogun politics, having governed the state from 2003 to 2011 before transitioning to the Senate. His influence, particularly in Ogun East, makes any perceived sidelining a matter of strategic importance within the party.
As of press time, the APC leadership in Ogun State had yet to publicly address the incident. However, the unfolding situation is likely to fuel further debate about inclusivity, leadership structure, and internal democracy within the ruling party.
With political activities gradually intensifying ahead of future elections, Monday’s stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu Ode may well serve as a litmus test for the APC’s ability to manage internal disagreements and present a united front.
