Senator Gbenga Daniel, who represents Ogun East, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election, alleging plans by the state government to unleash violence on his supporters.
The senator, who is seeking re-election, has been locked in a political rivalry with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun over the party’s ticket for Ogun East. Tensions between both camps have escalated in recent weeks, marked by accusations and counter-accusations from loyalists.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu – Otunba Gbenga Daniel (BATOGD) Movement, Daniel directed his supporters to boycott the primary election scheduled for Monday, citing security concerns and alleged threats from agents of the state government.
The statement, signed by the movement’s Director General, General Olumuyiwa Okunowo (rtd), and 34 others, said suspicious movements and the presence of miscreants had heightened fears of violence ahead of the exercise.
“In the last few days we have seen all manner of strange movements and miscreants taking positions and ready to strike down our people,” the statement read. “We have heard and seen agents of the state government threatening fire and brimstone against our supporters, and the elections yesterday are a confirmation of our worst fears.”
The group added that it could not, in good conscience, expose supporters to danger. “On this note, we have advised our principal, His Excellency, Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, to distance himself from the senatorial party primary elections. We also hereby advise our supporters to stay away from the venues of the senatorial party primary election of Monday, May 18, 2026, for their own safety.”
Speaking with Daily Trust, Daniel’s media aide, Steve Oliyide, confirmed that the former governor had endorsed the decision to withdraw from the contest.
“Yes, because we cannot put our supporters in harm’s way. Their safety is more of our concern than the contest,” Oliyide said. “If the party is ready to conduct a free and fair election and can guarantee the safety of our members, then we are game.”
