2027 Senate: Daniel Holds Firm Amid Push To End Rift With Abiodun

Despite mounting efforts by stakeholders to end the lingering feud between Senator Gbenga Daniel and Governor Dapo Abiodun, the former Ogun State governor has shown little sign of softening his stance on the issue at the heart of their conflict.

The two political heavyweights, both of the All Progressives Congress (APC), are at loggerheads over the Ogun East Senatorial seat. Daniel, who currently occupies the seat and is determined to retain it in the next political cycle, faces stiff opposition from Abiodun, who is eyeing the Senate after completing his second term as Governor in 2027.

The clash of ambitions has further inflamed a discord dating back to 2020. Daniel has alleged that the recent infraction notices issued against his properties by the Ogun State government are fallout from the feud.

Abiodun’s administration has denied the claim, arguing that other property owners were affected by the same enforcement exercise. The dispute has since moved into the courts.

Concerned that the row could fracture party unity ahead of the 2027 elections, insiders disclosed that stakeholders have been compelled to intervene as supporters from both camps intensify their rivalry.

President Bola Tinubu, who is seeking a second term, has directed that the APC present a united front in all states, not only to retain power where it currently holds sway but also to expand its dominance nationwide.

“That is why the intensifying efforts to resolve the crisis between Abiodun and Daniel are very important. The face-off is weakening the party in Ogun State,” a source close to the matter said.

As reconciliation moves continue—rumours of a ministerial appointment being floated as a bargaining chip among them—Daniel’s camp appears unfazed.

Checks revealed that his supporters have stepped up their campaign, projecting him as the natural and most credible choice to continue representing Ogun East in the Senate.

“The optics show the Senator is bent on retaining his position, and he is not shy about making his stance known publicly despite efforts to mend fences between him and Abiodun,” an observer noted.