Political war in Ogun East: Gbenga Daniel blasts Dapo Abiodun over ‘false claims’ on 2003, 2023 elections
Gbenga Daniel, Dapo Abiodun clash over Ogun election claims
A fresh political rift has emerged in Ogun State as Senator Gbenga Daniel has strongly rejected claims made by Governor Dapo Abiodun regarding past electoral victories and political support.
The dispute, which centres on narratives surrounding the 2003 governorship election and the 2023 senatorial race, has intensified political conversations within the state and raised questions about alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
Daniel Rejects Claims of Political Structure Support
In a detailed response issued by his media team, Gbenga Daniel dismissed Abiodun’s assertion that he provided the political structure that enabled Daniel’s victory in the 2003 governorship election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Daniel described the claim as “an outright falsehood and a failed attempt to rewrite history,” insisting that his electoral success was driven by grassroots mobilisation, extensive campaigns, and strong public support.
According to the statement, Daniel defeated Abiodun convincingly during the PDP governorship primaries, polling 127 votes against Abiodun’s 12, before going on to win the general election.
Revisiting the 2003 Election Narrative
Daniel’s camp emphasised that after securing the PDP ticket, he adopted a “No Victor, No Vanquished” approach by reaching out to fellow aspirants, including Abiodun, to foster unity.
The statement also revealed that Daniel later appointed Abiodun as the pioneer chairman of the Gateway Oil & Gas Committee, a move that contributed to the establishment of Ogun State’s oil and gas company.
This, according to Daniel’s allies, contradicts Abiodun’s claims of being the key political benefactor in the 2003 election.
2023 Senatorial Victory: ‘Earned, Not Given’
The disagreement extends to the 2023 senatorial election, where Abiodun reportedly claimed that his intervention ensured Daniel secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket and eventual victory.
However, Daniel’s media team firmly rejected this narrative, stating that the senator’s victory in Ogun East was “earned through credibility, legacy, and overwhelming voter support.”
They argued that Daniel conducted extensive campaigns across all 103 wards and held rallies in all local government areas, demonstrating widespread grassroots engagement.
Notably, the statement claimed that Abiodun did not attend any of these campaign events, raising doubts about the extent of his alleged support.
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Counter-Claims on Political Support in 2019
In a twist, Daniel’s camp asserted that it was actually the former governor who played a decisive role in Abiodun’s emergence as governor in 2019.
According to the statement, Daniel mobilised his political network to support Abiodun at a critical time when internal opposition threatened his chances.
The media team argued that without Daniel’s intervention, Abiodun might have lost the election to a rival backed by former governor Ibikunle Amosun.
Criticism of ‘Backroom Politics’
Daniel’s response went beyond rebutting claims, accusing Abiodun of relying on “backroom arrangements, forced consensus, and closed-door manoeuvring” to achieve political goals.
The statement suggested that a leader confident in their political strength would not need such tactics, adding that Daniel’s mandate was secured transparently at the polls.
It also highlighted that Daniel’s 2023 senatorial victory was uncontested at the election tribunal, describing it as a rare outcome that reflected clear voter endorsement.
Growing Political Divide Ahead of 2027 Elections
The escalating exchange between the two prominent politicians signals a widening divide within Ogun State’s political landscape.
Analysts believe the public disagreement could reshape alliances within the APC and influence the dynamics of future elections.
The dispute also underscores deeper tensions over political legacy, influence, and control within the state’s power structure.
Battle for Political Narrative and Influence
The clash between Gbenga Daniel and Dapo Abiodun is more than a war of words, it is a battle for political relevance and historical narrative.
As both leaders stake claim to influence over past and present electoral victories, the unfolding drama highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics, where legacy, loyalty, and perception often collide.
With 2027 on the horizon, the outcome of this political rivalry may play a crucial role in shaping Ogun State’s political future.
FAQ
Why is Gbenga Daniel clashing with Dapo Abiodun?
The dispute stems from claims by Abiodun that he supported Daniel’s victories in 2003 and 2023, which Daniel strongly denies.
What did Dapo Abiodun say about the 2003 election?
Abiodun claimed he handed over his political structure to Daniel, helping him win the governorship election.
How did Gbenga Daniel respond?
Daniel described the claim as false, insisting he won through grassroots support, campaigns, and voter backing.
What is the controversy about the 2023 senatorial election?
Abiodun claimed he influenced Daniel’s APC ticket and victory, but Daniel’s camp says the win was independent and widely supported.
Did Daniel support Abiodun in 2019?
According to Daniel’s media team, he played a key role in mobilising support for Abiodun’s governorship victory.
Is there a political crisis in Ogun State?
Yes, the public disagreement between both leaders suggests growing tensions that could affect political alignments.
What does this mean for the APC in Ogun State?
The clash could lead to internal divisions within the party ahead of future elections.
Was Daniel’s 2023 victory contested?
No, his senatorial victory was not challenged in court, indicating strong electoral acceptance.
Who is Gbenga Daniel?
He is a former governor of Ogun State and currently the senator representing Ogun East.
Who is Dapo Abiodun?
He is the current governor of Ogun State and a key political figure in the APC.