Gbenga Daniel withdraws from APC senate primary over ‘security threats’

Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary scheduled for Monday, citing alleged threats of violence against his supporters.

Daniel, former Ogun State governor,  who is seeking re-election, has been embroiled in a political face-off with Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, over the APC ticket for Ogun East.

In a statement issued Sunday by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu–Otunba Gbenga Daniel (BATOGD) Movement, the senator directed his supporters to boycott the primary over security concerns.

The statement, signed by BATOGD Director-General, General Olumuyiwa Okunowo (rtd), and 34 others, alleged that “strange movements and miscreants” had taken positions ahead of the exercise.

“We cannot, in good conscience, expose our supporters to danger and mayhem,” the group stated. It further advised members to stay away from the venue for their safety.

Daniel’s media aide, Steve Oliyide, said the former governor prioritised the safety of supporters above political ambition.

“Their safety is more important to us than the contest,” he said.