Why Can’t Gbenga Daniel Listen To The Party? — Abiodun’s Aide Blows Hot

Governor Dapo Abiodun has reaffirmed that the consensus arrangement remains a lawful and acceptable method under the Electoral Act.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the governor stated that consensus candidacy helps political parties reduce internal disputes and cut down the cost of campaigns.

Akinmade dismissed the notion that the Ogun East Senatorial ticket is a personal entitlement of Senator Gbenga Daniel.

He explained that consensus is recognized under electoral law and is often adopted by parties to promote unity, avoid internal conflict, and ensure smoother political processes.

According to him, aspirants who step down in favour of consensus candidates are often considered for compensation, adding that several individuals have previously benefited from such arrangements.

He further noted that those unwilling to accept consensus arrangements still retain the option of participating in direct primaries.

Akinmade recalled that Gbenga Daniel himself previously benefited from a consensus arrangement after the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, reportedly intervened and persuaded Senator Lekan Mustapha to withdraw from the race.

He said Senator Mustapha eventually stepped down following appeals from traditional and political stakeholders.

The aide questioned why Daniel should now resist a similar arrangement, stressing that political reciprocity and fairness should guide such decisions.

He added that the Ogun East senatorial ticket is not exclusively reserved for any individual, insisting that the party’s responsibility is to present its strongest candidates for the 2027 elections.

Akinmade also stated that there would be no impropriety if Governor Abiodun chooses to contest for the Senate seat in the future.