The Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended former governor and senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, alongside one of his loyalists, Kunle Folarin, over alleged anti-party misconduct.
The suspension was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the party’s Director of Publicity, Nuberu Olufemi, after the State Working Committee (SWC) meeting presided over by the state chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi.
According to the statement, Daniel, a member of the APC from Ward 4, Sagamu Local Government Area, and Folarin, from Ward 6 of the same LGA, were suspended following the review of reports from the disciplinary committees set up to investigate allegations of misconduct and anti-party activities against them.
The statement explained that both Ward 4 and Ward 6 disciplinary committees had invited the duo to appear before them to present their defence or seek pardon. However, Daniel and Folarin allegedly failed to respond to the written invitations, did not provide any defence, and declined to attend the meetings where they were expected to be heard.
The committees, therefore, proceeded with their deliberations, examined witness testimonies and documentary evidence, and considered additional allegations that Daniel and Folarin were harassing party members and attempting to pressure them into withdrawing petitions.
“In view of their deliberate and unexplained absence, the committees deliberated as scheduled, heard from the available witnesses, considered the available documentary evidence, and deliberated on the allegations,” the statement read.
It added that the committees also received reports that the two had been using their influence within the party to interfere with the disciplinary process.
As a result, the committees resolved to suspend Daniel and Folarin indefinitely to protect the integrity of the process. Copies of their suspension letters were sent to the state chairman, and the decision was ratified by the SWC.
“The suspensions were based on the members’ failure to cooperate with the investigation and their attempts to pressure party members to withdraw petitions against them. The SWC has ratified the suspensions. The meeting demonstrates the party’s commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding its constitution,” the statement concluded.
ADEOLA KUNLE
