A stakeholders caucus meeting of Ogun East Senatorial District of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday unanimously endorsed Governor Dapo Abiodun for the 2027 senatorial race.
This was as the current representative of the district, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, was controversially denied entry into the meeting venue.
The endorsement, according to a statement made available to newsmen, was announced at the crowded stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode.
The meeting brought together an extensive network of party leaders, elected officials, and grassroots mobilisers across the Ogun East Senatorial District.
The decision signals a major political alignment ahead of the 2027 general election.
The event, held at Adeola Odutola Hall, drew members of the Governor’s Advisory Council, lawmakers, local government officials, ward executives, councillors, and youth and women leaders, underscoring what organisers described as a “broad-based consensus” within the party.
However, the gathering was overshadowed by a tense standoff outside the venue, where Daniel was barred from gaining access.
Supporters at the scene chanted in solidarity as the development sparked debate within party ranks.
Addressing his supporters from outside the venue, Daniel expressed disbelief at the situation.
He said: “We are here for our Ogun East APC caucus meeting, but surprisingly we have been barred.
“Let it be on record that whatever they do here today is null and void.”
Inside the hall, party leaders moved the proceedings forward, describing the endorsement of Governor Abiodun as both strategic and unanimous.
Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, former Senator Lekan Mustapha said the decision reflected shared confidence in the governor’s leadership.
Mustapha said: “We will formally communicate this decision to the governor and constitute a team to deliver the message.
“He has been adopted as our consensus candidate.
“He is a man of proven character and intellect, well-positioned to represent Ogun East at the national level.”
Also lending weight to the endorsement, the Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, described the move as a defining moment for the district.
Talabi said: “This endorsement is historic and unanimous.
“It reflects our collective belief that Prince Dapo Abiodun is the right choice for the Senate.”
Lawmakers and local government leaders echoed similar sentiments, pointing to the governor’s record in governance and party cohesion as key factors behind the decision.
