Otunba Tayo Onayemi, Former Ijebu North East Local Government Chairman,
By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The political tension within the Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has escalated following fresh allegations surrounding the reported exclusion of former governor and serving senator, Gbenga Daniel (OGD), from a stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu Ode.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Adeola Odutola Hall during a strategic political gathering. Former Ijebu North East Local Government Chairman, Otunba Tayo Onayemi, has now provided an eyewitness account, further intensifying the controversy.
Speaking on Sabenko, a Yoruba-language political programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese Ijebu, Onayemi said he arrived early at the venue and was among the first to enter the hall.
According to him, “I was the second person to enter the Adeola Odutola Hall and everything was already arranged according to the status of dignitaries.” He said he attended in his capacity as Deputy Director-General of the OGD Movement in the Ijebu axis, adding that his role was to coordinate supporters.
He noted that the atmosphere appeared tense even before proceedings began, alleging that seating arrangements already reflected political hierarchy.
Alleged exclusion of OGD
Onayemi alleged that he was informed at the venue that Senator Gbenga Daniel would not be allowed into the hall. He said the information was conveyed by Hon. Tunde Diya, Chairman of Odogbolu Local Government, who reportedly stated that the meeting “belongs to Governor Dapo Abiodun.”
He said he challenged the claim, insisting that OGD remains a significant political figure in the state. “OGD is not a stranger in Ogun politics,” he said, questioning the decision to bar a serving senator from a stakeholders’ meeting.
Onayemi argued that political inclusion should be prioritised, warning that exclusionary actions could deepen internal party divisions.
“We built this structure”
The former council chairman also reflected on his political background, stating that he was among those who contributed to the formation of the current political structure in the state.
“We were the frontline people God used to build this political structure,” he said, referencing the 1998 political transition period.
He further questioned the authority of some current actors, insisting that political history and contribution should not be disregarded in party affairs. Claims of blockage and intervention attempts, Onayemi alleged that about 40 minutes into the meeting, he received information that OGD had been denied entry at the venue. He said he later confirmed the situation directly with the senator.
“I called him and he confirmed he was outside,” he said, describing the development as unfortunate.
He further claimed that attempts to intervene were unsuccessful and that he was eventually escorted out of the hall by security operatives under unclear circumstances.
He described the situation as “humiliating” and unprecedented in his political experience.
Denial of suspension claims
Onayemi also dismissed reports suggesting that Senator Daniel had been suspended from the APC, insisting that no such decision existed.
“There is nothing like suspension for OGD,” he said, adding that the party’s national leadership had not taken any such action.
He maintained that any disciplinary process must follow due party procedures and warned against spreading unverified claims.
Call for internal democracy
Reacting to the broader controversy, Onayemi called for adherence to APC rules and internal democracy, stressing that party decisions must not be driven by personal interests.
He warned that exclusionary politics could threaten unity within the party, especially ahead of future elections.
“Everybody is free to contest without intimidation,” he said, urging reconciliation among stakeholders.
Mixed reactions
The programme also featured caller reactions, with some defending Senator Daniel’s political relevance while others criticised alleged abuses of power and called for fairness within the party structure.
Onayemi, in his final remarks, urged calm and unity, warning that continued internal crisis could weaken the APC in Ogun State.
This is from the horses mouth, reportorial!
Well done,