Gbenga Daniel withdraws from APC Senate primaries, cites security threats

Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has withdrawn from the senatorial primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) scheduled for Monday, citing security concerns and alleged threats to his supporters.

Daniel, who is seeking re-election, has been locked in a political rivalry with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun over control of the party structure and the APC ticket for Ogun East.

The disagreement between both camps has intensified in recent weeks, with supporters on both sides trading accusations ahead of the primaries.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu–Otunba Gbenga Daniel (BATOGD) Movement, the senator directed his supporters to stay away from the primaries election, alleging risks of violence and intimidation.

The statement, signed by the group’s Director General, General Olumuyiwa Okunowo (rtd), and other members, claimed there had been suspicious movements and threats from alleged political actors ahead of the exercise.

It further alleged that the safety of supporters could not be guaranteed, warning against exposing them to possible violence.

“We cannot, in good conscience, expose our supporters to danger,” the group said, adding that Daniel had been advised to withdraw from the contest and avoid the exercise entirely.

Daniel’s media aide, Steve Oliyide, confirmed the withdrawal, saying the decision was taken to protect supporters.

He stated that the senator remained open to a free and fair process if adequate security could be guaranteed by the party and relevant authorities.

The development marks a major twist in the Ogun East senatorial race, where tensions have escalated amid internal disputes within the APC ahead of the primaries.