The so-called endorsement of Governor Dapo Abiodun as senatorial candidate for Ogun East is not just controversial, it is politically combustible, procedurally suspect, and dangerously destabilizing. What played out in Ijebu-Ode bears all the hallmarks of a premeditated imposition rather than a democratic consensus. In political terms, this was not an endorsement; it was an orchestration.
Ogun East, historically a politically sophisticated and culturally cohesive bloc, is now witnessing a dangerous escalation. Reports emerging from the APC stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode suggest that the process was hijacked by loyalists and appointees of the governor, effectively shutting out dissenting voices, most notably that of the sitting senator, Gbenga Daniel (OGD).
The optics alone are troubling, a serving senator, former governor, and ranking political figure was allegedly prevented from participating in a meeting within his own constituency. That is not just disrespect it signals a breakdown of internal party democracy.
The reaction from the grassroots has been swift and fierce. Under the umbrella of the Ijebu-Remo Youth Forum, there is a clear, unified position, the Ogun East senatorial seat is not negotiable.
Their support for Gbenga Daniel is rooted not only in his political pedigree but also in his deep cultural legitimacy within Ijebuland. As a member of the Awujale Royal Court and holder of the Otunba Obalofin title, OGD occupies a rare intersection of politics and tradition something that cannot be manufactured through political maneuvering.
For many in Ijebu, this is no longer just politics; it is about identity, heritage, and autonomy.
More alarming are allegations of physical violence and security breaches during the endorsement event. Names like Biyi Adeleye, “Danku,” Tunde Diya and others have surfaced in connection with attacks, including an alleged assault on a DSS official in Ijebu-Ode.
Political thuggery is not new in Nigeria, but the reported targeting of a state security operative elevates the issue from partisan conflict to a full-blown security crisis. The comparison with the tragic killing of an Area Commander in Ijebu-Ife is not incidental it is a warning sign. Ogun East has seen this script before, and the consequences were severe.
Calls for arrest, blacklisting, and even monitored parole for the alleged perpetrators reflect the depth of anger and the demand for accountability.
Beyond the immediate crisis lies a broader question about Governor Abiodun’s political future. Critics are already framing his senatorial ambition as both ethically and legally questionable, citing unresolved controversies surrounding his past ranging from alleged financial improprieties abroad to discrepancies in official records.
Whether these claims hold in court is secondary to their political impact, they erode trust and provide ammunition to opponents within and outside the party.
For a candidate seeking endorsement, perception is everything and right now, the optics are damaging.
The All Progressives Congress faces a defining moment in Ogun State. If the party leadership validates what many are calling a “kangaroo endorsement,” it risks alienating a critical voting bloc in Ogun East.
The warning from stakeholders is clear, impose a candidate against the will of the people, and the electoral consequences will be severe.
Ogun East is not just another district, it is a strategic stronghold. Losing it could have ripple effects across the state’s political architecture.
There is still a narrow window to de-escalate. It requires decisive intervention from national leadership, adherence to due process, and a clear repudiation of violence as a political tool.
Failure to act risks pushing Ogun East into a cycle of confrontation that could spiral beyond party politics into broader civil unrest.
At its core, this crisis is about a fundamental question, will Ogun East be allowed to choose its representative, or will that choice be dictated by a few powerful actors?
The answer will not only determine the fate of the APC in the district but also test the resilience of democratic norms in Ogun State.
Right now, the signals from Ijebu are unmistakable this is a battle they are prepared to fight to the end.
~ Olusegun Asegbe For Ijebu-Remo Youths Forum
