Ogun APC Ward Insists on Daniel‘s Suspension, Cites Constitutional Authority
The suspension of Senator Gbenga Daniel by Ward 4 of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State remains in effect, according to ward leadership, despite assertions from the National Working Committee (NWC) recognizing him as a bona fide party member. At a press briefing held Thursday at the ward secretariat in Sabo, Sagamu, officials argued the NWC lacks the power to overturn the suspension, which was enacted by the ward executives in accordance with the APC constitution.
Aduroja Oluwole, Secretary of Ward 4, flanked by Ward Chairman adebayo ismail and other party officials, explained that while Article 21(5)(vii) of the APC constitution grants the NWC the authority to suspend members, it does not supersede the disciplinary powers of executives at ward, local government, state, or zonal levels. Oluwole emphasized that disciplinary actions, including suspension, are onyl subject to appeal as outlined in Article 21.4, and are not subject to review by the NWC.
The ward leadership dismissed a directive from the National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, as ”misplaced and without any foundation in the party’s constitution,” asserting the NWC cannot nullify the suspension imposed by Ogun State party organs. While acknowledging Daniel has not been expelled, they maintained the suspension temporarily halts his rights, privileges, and obligations within the party.
The suspension stems from allegations of anti-party activities during the last general elections, including actions that undermined the APC and its candidates, as well as alleged attempts to obstruct justice during election petition tribunal sittings. The ward leadership stated these actions justified the continuation of the suspension.
Senator Daniel, through his spokesperson Steve Oliyide, has consistently denied these allegations, characterizing the suspension as politically motivated and aimed at preventing him from contesting the Ogun East senatorial ticket in 2027. Oliyide alleges Governor Dapo Abiodun’s hostility began after Daniel expressed interest in the senatorial race in 2022. He further pointed out Daniel’s support for Abiodun’s 2019 gubernatorial bid while a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), claiming Daniel’s mobilization of support contributed to Abiodun’s narrow 19,000-vote victory.
Oliyide also questioned the validity of the suspension, noting Daniel is registered in Isote Ward 12, not Ward 4, and argued the suspension represents an affront to due process and fair hearing.
The dispute highlights a growing tension between the APC’s ward executives and the NWC regarding the scope of authority in disciplinary matters, with both sides citing the party constitution to support their positions. This disagreement underscores the complex interplay of party rules and internal politics as the APC prepares for future elections.
