APC Caucus: Group Backs Party’s Decision, Urges Gbenga Daniel To Uphold Democratic Norms

The Centre for the Advocacy for Human Rights and Social Justice has thrown its weight behind the decision of the Ogun East Senatorial District caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to restrict attendance at its recent meeting to duly accredited members, describing the move as a necessary step to preserve order, discipline and institutional integrity.

In a press release made available to journalists and signed by its Leader, Olufemi Akindele, the group said the controversy surrounding the alleged exclusion of Senator Gbenga Daniel was being unnecessarily amplified, stressing that party structures must be respected by all members, regardless of status.

The organisation maintained that caucus meetings are governed by clear guidelines and are not open gatherings, noting that attendance is typically based on prior invitation and recognition within the party hierarchy.

It argued that the decision to limit participation was neither arbitrary nor targeted, but consistent with established norms aimed at ensuring productive deliberations.

According to the statement, attempts to portray the development as an affront to Senator Daniel were misplaced, adding that internal party mechanisms should not be misrepresented in a way that could mislead the public or create avoidable tension.

“The decision of the caucus to admit only invited stakeholders is in line with democratic best practices within political parties. Discipline, order and respect for procedure are the pillars upon which any credible political institution must stand,” the group stated.

The Centre further called on Daniel to demonstrate statesmanship by respecting party decisions and utilising internal channels to address any grievances, rather than resorting to public criticism.

It noted that as a ranking member of the party, the former governor is expected to model democratic conduct and contribute to strengthening, rather than undermining, party cohesion.

While urging restraint among supporters, the group cautioned against dragging the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, into what it described as a purely party-driven matter.

It reiterated that the meeting in question was not convened by the state government, but by party stakeholders acting within their constitutional framework.

“It is important, that political leaders separate governance from party administration. Bringing the person of the governor into this issue only serves to politicise a straightforward organisational procedure,” the statement added.

The group emphasized that healthy democracies thrive on respect for rules and collective decisions, not on personal interpretations of entitlement.

It warned that persistent public attacks on party processes could weaken internal democracy and set a poor example for younger members.

Concluding, the Centre urged all stakeholders within the APC to remain committed to unity and due process, while encouraging Senator Daniel to align with the principles of party discipline and democratic engagement in resolving disputes.