_By A.R. Olanrewaju_
As the dust settles on the highly disputed APC Ogun East Senatorial primary held on May 18, 2026, serious questions are being raised about the legitimacy of the process and the long term implications for the senatorial district. Many stakeholders view the exercise as a charade marred by boycott, alleged intimidation, and suppression of genuine party members, raising doubts over Governor Dapo Abiodun’s declared landslide victory.
Incumbent Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD) withdrew from the race on the eve of the primary, citing credible threats of violence against his supporters. He explicitly directed his loyalists to boycott the election to avoid harm and to protest what critics described as a predetermined outcome. Despite this, the process proceeded, with Abiodun announced as winner with allegedly inflated 75,550 votes according to many witnesses.
Daniel was announced to have received 398 votes from supporters who defied the boycott or were unaware. Critics argue that the official figures are misleading and do not reflect the true strength of party members in Ogun East. With a significant portion of OGD’s grassroots base staying away due to security fears and allegations of voter suppression, the turnout and results are seen by many as unrepresentative. The primary is widely described as lacking credibility, fairness, and broad participation.
The Critical Need for Ranking and Experience
Across Nigeria, first time lawmakers often struggle in the National Assembly compared to ranking members who command influence through seniority, strategic committee positions, and established networks. This has been evident in Ogun State:
Senator Iyabo Anisulowo faced limitations as a first time senator in the 5th National Assembly despite her brilliant performance in the upper chamber.
Hon. Abdulkabir Adekoya (“Attacker”) maximized impact through ranking and leadership roles.
Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) built formidable influence over multiple terms, especially as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation.
Senator Gbenga Daniel, a former two term governor with deep national networks, entered the Senate in 2023. Proponents insist that continuity would have allowed him to attain ranking status, secure principal offices, and better attract federal projects, infrastructure, and appointments since Yayi is pursuing the governorship in 2027.
Sending another first timer like Governor Dapo Abiodun (despite his executive experience) resets the seniority clock. Critics warn this risks stalling the momentum and developmental gains already initiated by OGD, leaving Ogun East disadvantaged in the competitive federal arena where experience translates directly into opportunities.
Why the National Working Committee Must Rethink Its Position
Stakeholders urging the APC National Working Committee (NWC) and President Tinubu to critically review and potentially reconsider ratification of the Ogun East outcome cite several grounds:
Questionable Legitimacy: The boycott by a major bloc of supporters, coupled with pre election allegations of intimidation, harassment, and imposition, undermines the process. Daniel’s camp had raised concerns about bias and lack of neutrality well before the poll.
Risk to Party Unity: A divisive primary could fracture APC in Ogun East ahead of the 2027 general elections, weakening the party’s prospects.
Developmental Setback: Ogun East cannot afford another low ranking start. Federal opportunities are too vital in these challenging economic times. Retaining and building on OGD’s experience would better position the district for sustained impact and complement any future state leadership.
While Abiodun’s supporters emphasize his executive record and claim the process was peaceful, the widespread boycott and persistent allegations from the OGD bloc and critics paint a picture of a flawed exercise that may not truly represent the will of the broader party membership.
The central issue transcends personal ambition. It concerns the long term federal relevance and developmental future of Ogun East. Should a contested, boycott marred primary be allowed to produce a rookie senator who restarts the seniority struggle, or does the district deserve continuity with a proven, ranking bound representative?
Many concerned voices believe the NWC owes Ogun East a fairer hearing to protect party cohesion and the district’s interests. The coming weeks and months will determine whether development or intra party power plays prevail.
