- Speculations of a political rift between Daniel and Governor Abiodun have intensified with the state government’s recent demolition threat.
- The party’s spokesperson said the suspension proved APC’s readiness to enforce discipline and protect the integrity of its constitution.
The Ogun state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended a former governor of the state, Gbenga Daniel.
Daniel, who represents Ogun East in the Senate, was accused of engaging in anti-party activities by his ward in Sagamu.
He was suspended alongside Kunle Folarin, one of his loyalists, by the party’s state working committee.
The party’s spokesperson, Nuberu Olufemi, said the suspensions followed recommendations of disciplinary committees set up in wards 4 and 6.
Olufemi said, “They wrote to the members under investigation, inviting them to the disciplinary meetings at which they were to be heard and allowed to present evidence in their defence or request pardon from the party.”
He explained that both Daniel and Folarin failed to honour the invitations or submit written defences before the committees.
The spokesperson alleged that the two party members used their influence to intimidate others and dissuade them from cooperating with the panels.
“In view of their deliberate and unexplained absences, the committees deliberated as scheduled, heard from the available witnesses, considered the available documentary evidence, and deliberated on the allegations,” Olufemi added.
He said the suspensions would remain indefinite pending further investigations and the outcome of the inquiry.
The SWC, according to Olufemi, ratified the decision, saying it underscored the party’s resolve to maintain discipline and uphold its constitution.
There have been speculations of a feud between Daniel and the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, in recent months.
Tensions worsened after the state government marked properties linked to the senator, including a hotel and residence, for demolition.