After Failed Demolition Plots, Gov. Abiodun-Led Ogun APC Announces Sen. Daniel’s Suspension on Facebook
Days after the botched attempt to demolish Senator Gbenga Daniel’s hotels and houses, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has escalated his rivalry with the former governor, securing Daniel’s suspension from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Abiodun, who leads the ruling party in the state, oversaw the indefinite suspension of his political adversary, marking a new phase in their feud ahead of the high-stakes 2027 elections.
The failed demolition of Daniel’s luxury property last week signaled the breakdown of any lingering reconciliation efforts between the two political heavyweights. Following maneuvers by Daniel that stalled the governor’s plan, the APC announced a decision that was hinged on what it terms as “anti-party activities”.
Daniel, who governed Ogun between 2003 and 2011, was suspended alongside lawmaker Kunle Folarin for alleged “anti-party activities” and “misconduct.”
“In exercise of its powers, the State Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State hereby affirms the suspension of two members of our party in Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Daniel and Hon. Kunle Folarin, by their respective wards for alleged anti-party activities,” APC publicity director Nuberu Olufemi said in a Monday statement.
The party accused both men of intimidating members into withdrawing a petition but failed to specify the nature of Daniel’s alleged misconduct. It also did not disclose when or how often the senator was summoned before the suspension was ratified.
Daniel currently represents Ogun East in the National Assembly—the same senatorial zone Abiodun is rumored to be eyeing for 2027. Analysts say this looming contest has driven the governor to sideline his former ally, whom he once relied on for his successful 2019 governorship bid.
Insiders told Peoples Gazette that Abiodun believes removing Daniel from the APC is the surest path to securing the ticket. But Daniel, regarded as a political godfather in Ogun, retains significant grassroots loyalty, making him a formidable opponent.
The governor has long faced accusations of using state machinery against his predecessor. Daniel’s suspension is seen as part of a broader power struggle that has deepened divisions within Ogun APC.
While Daniel’s camp has yet to issue a formal response, his media aide, Stephen Oluyide, did not immediately return calls on whether the senator plans to challenge the suspension or explore an appeal.
With both men now on a collision course, Ogun politics appears set for a turbulent countdown to 2027.
