Cracks in the ruling APC over consensus have widened with loyalists of former Gbenga Daniel and aggrieved aspirants in Oyo State rejecting alleged imposition of candidates.

Speaking on behalf of Dapo Abiodun, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, dismissed claims that the Ogun East Senatorial ticket belongs to Daniel as a right.

Akinmade told New City news that consensus remained a legitimate option under the Electoral Act, stressing that it helps political parties reduce internal crises and campaign expenses.

He said: “Consensus arrangement is part of the Electoral Act. What the leadership of the party believes is that having a consensus will save the party money, prevent internal strife and acrimony and, at the same time, help the party move forward.

“Those who do not agree with consensus have the option of participating in direct primaries.”

According to him, the governor had earlier assured aspirants who stepped down for consensus candidates that they would be compensated, adding that many had benefited from such arrangements.

Akinmade recalled that Daniel himself emerged through consensus after the late Oba Sikiru Adetona reportedly prevailed on Senator Lekan Mustapha to withdraw from the race.

“The late Awujale of Ijebuland called the governor and other stakeholders and pleaded that Senator Lekan Mustapha should step down for Gbenga Daniel. He listened and stepped down.

“So, if Senator Lekan Mustapha could concede to Daniel, why can’t Daniel also listen to the party?” he asked.

He added that the Ogun East senatorial seat was not exclusively reserved for Daniel, insisting that the party had the responsibility of fielding its “best 11” for the 2027 elections.

Akinmade also said there would be nothing wrong if Governor Abiodun decides to contest for the Senate seat.

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