Abiodun, Daniel trade accusations of “witch-hunt” and intolerance in Ogun politics
Tensions deepened between Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun State, and Gbenga Daniel, senator representing Ogun East and former governor, as Daniel accused Abiodun of running a repressive, intolerant administration, charging him with orchestrating a “witch-hunt.”
Speaking during a visit to Ijebu Igbo as part of his political group’s midterm assessment tour, Daniel alleged that since 2019, governance in Ogun has been restricted to a tight inner circle. According to him, those outside the “tiny cabal” face ostracism, victimisation, even threats such as sack notices or demolition orders, simply for offering criticism or associating with opposition voices.
He described the government’s approach as dictatorial, charging that traditional rulers, community leaders, and teachers have been intimidated for interacting with dissenting voices. Daniel insisted this treatment undermines inclusive governance.
In response, Abiodun’s spokesperson, Kayode Akinmade, dismissed the allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated attempts to deflect earlier anti-party accusations lodged against Daniel. He argued Daniel should have defended himself formally before any investigation panel rather than airing grievances in the media.
The spat underscores a widening rift within the ruling party in Ogun as factions trade barbs over alleged intolerance, suppression of dissent, and the handling of constituency projects, particularly claims that state-backed “stop-work” orders have stalled development projects initiated by Daniel for his senatorial district.