2027: Daniel Challenges Abiodun to Live Debate Over Ogun East Senate Ticket
Former governor of Ogun State and current senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has challenged Governor Dapo Abiodun to a live televised debate over the contest for the Ogun East senatorial ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Background to the Dispute
The challenge follows recent developments within the All Progressives Congress (APC), where Governor Abiodun was reportedly endorsed by party stakeholders as a consensus candidate for the Ogun East senatorial seat.
However, Daniel rejected the claim, insisting that the process did not meet the criteria for consensus.
“There was no consensus. Consensus requires agreement by all parties involved. What happened was an endorsement,” he stated.
Call for Public Debate
Speaking during an interview on TVC’s Beyond The Headlines, Daniel issued a direct challenge to the governor, calling for a face-to-face televised debate.
He said both candidates should:
Present their records
Defend their positions
Allow the public to assess their suitability
“I would like to sit with him in public, with facts and figures, and let Nigerians judge,” he said.
Daniel added that failure to accept the challenge could be interpreted as avoidance.
Allegations of Political Exclusion
Daniel also alleged that he was excluded from a key APC caucus meeting where Abiodun’s endorsement was decided.
He described the development as politically improper, particularly given his status as the incumbent senator.
The former governor warned that certain actions by party leaders could have negative consequences for internal party unity and governance.
Concerns Over Party Process
The senator raised concerns about the credibility of the APC primary process in Ogun State, alleging:
Pressure on party members to support the governor
Influence of incumbency on decision-making
Lack of neutrality among party officials
He urged the party’s national leadership to ensure a free, fair, and transparent primary election.
Conditional Loyalty to Party Leadership
Despite his criticisms, Daniel reaffirmed his loyalty to party leadership, particularly to President Bola Tinubu.
He stated that he would step down from the race if directed to do so in the interest of party unity.
“The president is the leader of the party. If he asks me to step down, I will obey,” he said.
Political Implications
The development signals:
Rising internal tensions within the APC in Ogun State
Early positioning ahead of the 2027 elections
Potential for a competitive and possibly divisive primary contest
Conclusion
With both camps yet to reach common ground, the contest for the Ogun East senatorial ticket is shaping up to be a significant political battle.
Daniel’s call for a live debate introduces a new dimension to the race, potentially increasing public scrutiny and engagement ahead of the 2027 polls.