A fresh crack has emerged within the Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress as former governor and senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, was on Monday denied entry into a crucial caucus meeting in the senatorial district.
The meeting, convened under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, was held at Adeola Odutola Hall in Ijebu-Ode and scheduled for 11 a.m., with invitations extended to key party stakeholders, including former chairmen, lawmakers, and councillors.
However, tension flared when Daniel’s convoy was reportedly blocked from accessing the venue, sparking a confrontation at the gate. In videos circulating online, supporters of the ex-governor were seen chanting in solidarity while security operatives attempted to negotiate entry.
Addressing his supporters from his vehicle, Daniel faulted the development, insisting his exclusion invalidated the legitimacy of the meeting.
“We came for the caucus meeting and arrived early, but we were denied access. Any decision taken in my absence will be meaningless,” he declared.
His media aide, Steve Oliyide, alleged that the meeting was dominated by loyalists of Governor Dapo Abiodun, accusing them of deliberately shutting out perceived opponents.
According to him, the restriction was not limited to Daniel, as other party figures, including former local government chairmen, were also reportedly barred and threatened.
“What is happening is a gathering of the governor’s loyalists. Anyone not aligned with him was prevented from entering,” Oliyide said.
Efforts to get a response from the state APC leadership proved abortive, as the party’s publicity secretary, Femi Nuberu, did not respond to enquiries as of press time.
Party sources hinted that the meeting may be linked to moves to adopt a consensus candidate for the Ogun East senatorial seat ahead of the next election cycle.
The incident underscores the intensifying rivalry between Daniel and Abiodun, with both camps believed to be positioning ahead of the 2027 senatorial contest.