There was palpable tension in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, on Monday as the senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, was denied access to a crucial All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial meeting.
Daniel, who previously served as governor of Ogun State and is currently seeking a second term in the Senate, reportedly arrived early at the venue—Adeola Odutola Hall—but was stopped from entering the premises.
The incident is believed to be connected to the ongoing political rift between him and the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun. Both men are reportedly contesting for the APC senatorial ticket for Ogun East, a development that has heightened tensions within the party in recent weeks.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the vehicle conveying Daniel was blocked at the entrance of the venue, preventing him from gaining access. Attempts by some individuals to negotiate his entry were unsuccessful, as seen in a video currently circulating on social media.
Sources suggest that the meeting was expected to address key decisions regarding the party’s senatorial ticket for Ogun East, making Daniel’s exclusion particularly significant.
Addressing supporters at the scene, the former governor expressed frustration over the situation, stating that he had arrived at the venue as early as 10:00 a.m. for the scheduled caucus meeting but was denied entry.
“Today is our caucus meeting in Ijebu-Ode. I got here since 10:00 a.m., but they said I cannot enter,” he said.
He further maintained that any resolutions reached in his absence would not be valid.
“If they take any decision here today without my participation, it will be null and void. Let them continue,” Daniel added.
As of the time of filing this report, the APC leadership in Ogun State has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. The development has, however, sparked reactions among party members and observers, raising concerns about internal cohesion ahead of the upcoming electoral process.