Written by Seyi Bakare
Political Dynamics Intensify as Senator Daniel Pursues Nomination
This week, political observers closely monitored the nomination form acquisition by Chief Gbenga Daniel, the senator representing Ogun East in the National Assembly. At the All Progressives Congress (APC) headquarters in Abuja, Daniel announced, “Today, I pick up my nomination and expression of interest to return to the Nigerian Senate, continuing my efforts to provide effective and responsive representation to the people of Ogun East Senatorial District under the platform of the APC in the run-up to the 2027 general elections.” This announcement comes on the heels of significant support for Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun from local party leaders and prominent stakeholders in the Ogun East constituency. The APC’s legislative framework allows state branches to adopt such consensus arrangements, which have already facilitated the emergence of candidates for the upcoming gubernatorial elections in Ogun State.
Impending Electoral Drama in Ogun East
The 2027 Ogun East senatorial election promises to be contentious, notably due to the strained relationship between two former allies. Daniel and Abiodun, who competed against one another in a fiercely contested primary for the governorship in 2011, have seen their amicable relationship sour. Daniel switched from the Democratic Alliance (AD) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to challenge Abiodun, a founding member of the PDP in Ogun State. Although factions within the PDP backed Daniel, leading to his primary win, Abiodun graciously lent support to Daniel’s campaign, providing both resources and political backing. During Daniel’s gubernatorial tenure, Abiodun notably refrained from seeking assistance from the state government.
Past Governance Challenges and Political Fallout
Daniel’s time as governor was marred by significant challenges, including intense political infighting and a notable rise in violence. High-profile assassinations and widespread unrest characterized the political landscape, culminating in a derailed legislative process and scandals involving legislators. Amid this turmoil, Daniel struggled to establish a successor within a fragmented PDP, ultimately forming another party, the PPN, only to witness his opposition candidate, Ibikunle Amosun, win the election for the Oke Mosan office.
Political Comeback Amidst Adversity
After his controversial tenure, Daniel became embroiled with anti-corruption agencies and found himself sidelined in Ogun State politics. During this period, he reportedly described his failure to establish a successor as one of the greatest setbacks of his career. Notably, he maintained a low profile during Amosun’s administration, which many political analysts described as marked by aggression and a politically charged atmosphere. However, Daniel made a comeback in 2019, serving as general manager of Atiku Abubakar’s presidential campaign under the PDP. Following Atiku’s defeat, Daniel switched his allegiance to the APC just days before Abiodun’s successful gubernatorial election.
Inter-party Dynamics and Growing Tensions
Despite Abiodun’s lackluster performance in Daniel’s stronghold during the 2019 gubernatorial elections, both men sought to mend their strained relationship. Abiodun ensured that Daniel was compensated for previous political grievances, including the return of his properties and established access to the state. Soon after regaining political footing, however, tensions resurfaced. After securing his senatorial ticket, Daniel reportedly began working against Abiodun, leading to accusations of deceitful behavior. He was alleged to have attempted to thwart the governor’s political ambitions through various underhanded tactics, including collaboration with opposing party members.
Accusations and Political Resurrection
Daniel’s antics in the political arena, particularly concerning unjust media narratives about Abiodun, have provoked outrage among Ogun East stakeholders. Many party members have called upon Abiodun to enter the 2027 senatorial race, reflecting a growing discontent with Daniel’s behavior. Political observers note that the landscape under Abiodun’s administration has witnessed relative peace, in contrast to prior years. Abiodun’s administration has seen transformative changes, raising Ogun State’s GDP significantly and presenting it as a leading investment destination.
Looking Ahead: The Ogun East Race
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, the rivalry between Daniel and Abiodun is expected to intensify. Accusations against Daniel for media manipulation and character assassination continue to surface. Reports suggest that during a critical APC meeting regarding consensus candidacy, Daniel attempted to circumvent party protocols, leading to further estrangement from party leadership. Many observers anticipate that Daniel’s actions may irrevocably damage his political prospects, potentially relegating him to obscurity reminiscent of his earlier tenure.
*Political Analyst Bakare submitted this article via seyibakr@aol.com
