Senate Battle: Insiders Say Ticket Is Daniel’s To Lose, He Won’t Back Down For Abiodun

Fresh indications from Senator Gbenga Daniel’s camp suggest he has no plans to step aside in his bid for a second term in the Senate.

Daniel, who represents Ogun East, is banking on his performance record and several constituency projects to strengthen his re-election push.

But Governor Dapo Abiodun’s reported interest in the same seat after his second term ends in 2027 has sparked a quiet storm within the All Progressives Congress (APC), pitting their supporters against one another.

Despite high-level efforts to calm tensions, insiders say Daniel remains resolute, insisting the primaries and general election should determine his fate.

“He knows he has what it takes to win against any opponent,” one source said confidently.

While Abiodun’s supporters brand the Governor as the “people’s choice” for the Ogun East seat, Daniel’s loyalists argue the senatorial ticket rightfully belongs to the incumbent.

According to those close to Daniel, new APC rules have levelled the field in his favour. Under the revised structure, the National Working Committee (NWC) now holds final authority over state chapters, limiting governors’ control of local primaries.

This centralisation, Daniel’s aides believe, will create a fairer process free from state interference.

Another key clause could further shape the contest: any two-term Governor seeking another elective office must relinquish their role as State Party Leader once they declare interest.

Analysts say this provision may significantly weaken Abiodun’s influence in the selection process.

Additionally, the APC’s “first right of refusal” rule for incumbents could work in Daniel’s favour, giving him institutional leverage to retain the ticket.

Party insiders see these developments as strengthening Daniel’s grip ahead of the 2027 race.