Gov. Abiodun’s Ally, Arabambi Rejects Manipulation Claims Over Ogun East Endorsement, Calls Allegations Baseless
ABEOKUTA — Supporters of Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, have dismissed allegations of manipulation surrounding his reported endorsement for the Ogun East senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the claims as “mischievous and unfounded.”
The endorsement which reportedly took place during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu Ode and has since sparked controversy, following an article by political commentator Wale Onifade accusing the governor of using intimidation and undue influence to secure support.
In response, Abiodun’s allies have strongly refuted the allegations, insisting they are baseless and politically motivated.
Dr. Arabambi Abayomi, State Convener of the Sustainability of Ogun & Dapo Abiodun Legacy Beyond 2027 group, described the claims as “divisive and dishonest,” maintaining that the meeting was a legitimate gathering of party stakeholders from across Ogun East.
The meeting, which was attended by councillors, ward executives, local government leaders, and both current and former lawmakers, reportedly endorsed the governor in the absence of the district’s serving senator, former Governor Gbenga Daniel.
Reports indicated that Senator Daniel was unable to attend the meeting, with some of his supporters alleging he was deliberately excluded.
However, Arabambi dismissed these concerns, as well as claims that financial inducements were used to influence the endorsement, noting that no verifiable evidence had been presented.
“What is presented as investigative journalism is speculation dressed as fact,” he said.
Arabambi also defended the governor’s track record, citing achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development as justification for the endorsement.
He referenced projects such as the Gateway International Airport and recent oil discoveries in the state as indicators of the administration’s performance.
He cautioned, however, that the controversy surrounding the senatorial ambition could create internal tensions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and potentially disrupt existing political alignments.
While reaffirming support for the governor, Arabambi criticized the tone and intent of the allegations, arguing that they detract from governance and development priorities.
“There is a season for politics, and a season for statecraft. At a time when critical decisions must be made to advance development, it is unhelpful to promote narratives built on speculation rather than facts.”
He continued, “the writer’s mission has exposed the attributes of someone who perhaps might be suffering from Pseudologia Fantastica. His mission was not only mischievous and dishonest but erroneous with incorrect narratives that can only be spun by unctuous, dissipated, debauched and desperate elements attempting to turn a perfectly organized APC Ogun East Stake Holder meetings where His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun was endorsed as the Senatorial candidate of APC in upcoming 2027 General elections into something mendacious and devious.
“There is a season for politics, and then there is a season for statecraft. The two are not the same, though mischief-makers delight in blurring the line.
“We are entering the latter, a period when far-reaching decisions are made for the good of the state, when roads must be laid, hospitals stocked, salaries paid, and oil wells brought to life.
“Yet here comes an article dressed as investigation, parading as conscience, that offers nothing but hearsay, envelopes, and anonymous threats. This is not journalism. This is the politics of the poisoned well, and those who drink from it will find only thirst.”
