Ogun APC Ward Upholds Suspension of Gbenga Daniel

The leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ward 4, Sabo, Sagamu, has reaffirmed that former Ogun State governor and Ogun East senator, Gbenga Daniel, remains suspended from party activities. Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, ward officials insisted that the National Working Committee (NWC) does not have the authority to overturn decisions made at the ward level.

According to Ward Secretary Aduroja Oluwole, who spoke alongside Ward Chairman Adebayo Ismail and other executives, the suspension followed what the ward described as clear acts of anti-party conduct. He emphasized that the action aligns with the APC constitution and remains binding until formally challenged through the proper appeal channels.

Constitutional Backing for Ward-Level Decisions

Oluwole highlighted that while the NWC can discipline party members, it cannot nullify disciplinary measures taken by lower party organs. He cited specific sections of the APC constitution, stressing that decisions at the ward, local government, state, or zonal levels are independent. They are only subject to appeal  not review by the national leadership.

He described a recent directive from the APC National Secretary, which indicated Daniel is still a bona fide member, as “misplaced” and without constitutional foundation. “The suspension temporarily suspends Daniel’s rights and privileges within the party until any appeal is fully heard and determined,” Oluwole said.

Allegations of Anti-Party Conduct

Ward executives accused Daniel of undermining the party during the last general elections and attempting to obstruct justice at various tribunal hearings. They stressed that these claims have not been contested by the senator, prompting them to reaffirm the suspension.

Daniel’s Response: Politically Motivated Claims

Gbenga Daniel’s media aide, Steve Oliyide, dismissed the accusations, labeling the suspension as politically motivated. He alleged that Governor Dapo Abiodun is orchestrating the move to marginalize Daniel ahead of the 2027 Ogun East senatorial contest.

Daniel himself has consistently denied all allegations of anti-party behavior, questioning the legality of a suspension issued by a ward where he is not registered. He also pointed out that he supported Abiodun’s rise in 2019, suggesting that the tension only escalated after he declared his interest in the 2022 senatorial primaries.