A political advocacy group in Ogun State has dismissed allegations contained in a recent article accusing Governor Dapo Abiodun of manipulating the process leading to his reported endorsement for the Ogun East senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The rebuttal, issued by Dr. Arabambi Abayomi, described the publication authored by Wale Onifade and titled “Ogun East Ticket: How Dapo Abiodun Is Bullying, Threatening and Manipulating His Way to a Senatorial Showdown” as misleading, divisive, and lacking factual foundation.
According to the statement, the publication blurred the distinction between politics and governance, stressing that the current period requires focus on statecraft, including infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, salary payments, and economic expansion, rather than what it described as hearsay and unverified allegations.
The statement explained that although the writer would ordinarily not respond to what was described as “insanely and mischievous diatribes,” the nature of the publication made a response unavoidable.
It further alleged that the article reflected “mischievous, dishonest and erroneous” intentions, accusing the author of presenting incorrect narratives about a stakeholders’ meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun East where Governor Dapo Abiodun was endorsed as the senatorial candidate for the 2027 general elections.
The response characterized the article as lacking evidence, noting that it relied on anonymous sources without presenting verifiable facts, documented proof, or identifiable accusers, thereby portraying speculation as reality.
Citing the Roman philosopher Seneca, the statement criticized the style of the report, alleging that it mirrors “the worst kind of muckraking,” where accusations are made without accountability.
The group maintained that no credible evidence was presented to substantiate allegations that financial inducements were distributed to influence political endorsement, arguing that the absence of verifiable details such as names, documents, or direct testimonies undermines the credibility of the claims.
According to the statement, the claims of inducement and coercion at a stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu Ode were “entirely speculative,” noting that the gathering comprised a broad spectrum of party leadership across Ogun East, including ward executives, local government leaders, serving and former lawmakers, and members of the State Advisory Council.
Addressing specific allegations that the governor bribed 400 individuals at the Adeola Odutola Event Hall in Ijebu Ode, the statement noted that no list, photographic evidence, or financial documentation was provided to support the claim.
It questioned the plausibility of such allegations, asking how a large assembly of political stakeholders could allegedly engage in wrongdoing without dissent or evidence, referencing philosopher Hannah Arendt’s views on moral accountability.
Defending the governor’s record, the statement highlighted ongoing infrastructure development, improvements in the health and education sectors, and the establishment of the Gateway International Airport as indicators of administrative performance, alongside emerging oil production prospects in Ogun State.
Highlighting achievements, the statement said Governor Dapo Abiodun has performed creditably in infrastructure, education, health, and aviation, including consistent payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities.
It questioned why such developments were not reflected in the article, asserting that the administration’s record contradicts the negative portrayal presented.
On the issue of political hierarchy and representation, the group acknowledged arguments about maintaining ranking legislative positions but insisted that such considerations should not overshadow broader developmental achievements within the state.
Quoting Chinua Achebe, the statement argued that the publication contributes to political damage rather than constructive discourse, and criticized the decision to publish without waiting for an official response from the governor’s office.
The statement also dismissed suggestions of conflict between Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Dapo Abiodun, describing such claims as unfounded and speculative.
Reaffirming confidence in the democratic process, the group emphasized that the ultimate decision on representation in the National Assembly would rest with voters during elections, not through media narratives or political conjecture.
The statement concluded with a call for responsible journalism and restraint in political discourse, urging stakeholders to prioritize unity and evidence-based engagement over speculation.
Dr. Arabambi Abayomi signed the statement in his capacity as State Convener of the Sustainability of Ogun and Dapo Abiodun Legacy Beyond 2027 initiative, dated April 20, 2026.