Fresh tensions have surfaced within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, as Governor Dapo Abiodun publicly accused Senator Gbenga Daniel of orchestrating negative media campaigns against him.

The allegation was made during a stakeholders’ meeting of the APC in Ogun East, highlighting deepening divisions within the party ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. The development follows Abiodun’s endorsement as the consensus candidate for the Ogun East senatorial seat, a decision that has sparked disagreement among key party figures.

According to Abiodun, the ongoing criticism against his administration is not coincidental but allegedly driven by political motives linked to internal rivalry. He stated that if Daniel believes sponsoring attacks is a form of political response, such actions would ultimately be judged by public opinion.

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The dispute comes shortly after Daniel, a former governor of Ogun State, was reportedly excluded from an APC caucus meeting held in Ijebu-Ode, where Abiodun’s endorsement was finalized. In reaction, Daniel dismissed the outcome of the meeting, describing its resolutions as invalid.

Despite the consensus arrangement within the party, Daniel proceeded to obtain nomination forms to contest for re-election to the Senate, signaling his refusal to step aside. This move has further intensified the political standoff between both leaders.

Speaking at the gathering, Abiodun reflected on his longstanding political relationship with Daniel, recounting how he supported the senator’s rise in the past. He noted that although they were once political opponents, he chose to back Daniel after the latter secured his party’s nomination during a previous election cycle.

The governor claimed that he provided substantial political structures and resources to ensure Daniel’s success, adding that his involvement was instrumental in securing the senator’s current position. He also revealed that he played a role in facilitating Daniel’s return to the APC after a period of political realignment.

“These are facts,” Abiodun stressed, as he detailed what he described as his contributions to Daniel’s political journey.

Beyond the personal dimension of the dispute, Abiodun used the platform to rally party members and reinforce unity within Ogun East. He expressed confidence that the region would remain aligned with the APC’s broader objectives despite the internal disagreements.

The governor also reiterated his support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledging that Ogun State would deliver strong electoral backing for the president in future elections. He emphasized that party cohesion remains critical to achieving electoral success across the South-West.

In addition, Abiodun endorsed Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola as a leading contender for the governorship, signaling ongoing succession planning within the party’s ranks.

Political observers note that the unfolding situation reflects broader challenges within Nigeria’s party system, where internal competition often leads to public disputes. While such conflicts can test party unity, they may also reshape alliances and influence candidate selection ahead of major elections.

As the APC in Ogun State navigates this period of discord, the outcome of the Abiodun-Daniel rift could play a significant role in determining the party’s strength and cohesion in the lead-up to 2027.