A political advocate, Abayomi Arabambi, has thrown his weight behind Dapo Abiodun for the Ogun East senatorial seat, while strongly dismissing allegations of financial misconduct and controversies surrounding the governor.

In a detailed statement issued on Thursday, Arabambi criticised former governor Gbenga Daniel, accusing him of sponsoring negative media campaigns against Abiodun over his reported senatorial ambition.

Arabambi described recent claims of a ₦17 billion diversion of local government funds as “false and misleading,” explaining that allocations in Ogun State are managed through the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), which includes representatives of all 20 local governments, labour unions, and traditional institutions.

According to him, the Abiodun administration had instead supplemented local government finances during periods of shortfall between 2019 and 2022, ensuring salary obligations were met.

He also dismissed references to an alleged decades-old legal issue in the United States, noting that constitutional provisions only disqualify candidates convicted of offences involving dishonesty within ten years of an election.

On the Pandora Papers controversy, Arabambi argued that being listed as a beneficial owner of offshore companies does not, in itself, constitute a criminal offence, adding that any issues relating to asset declaration fall within the jurisdiction of the Code of Conduct Bureau.

Highlighting the governor’s achievements, Arabambi said Ogun State has recorded significant economic growth under Abiodun, with improved internally generated revenue and increased industrial activity.

He cited the recent international flight operations from the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, where hundreds of Hajj pilgrims were airlifted directly to Saudi Arabia, describing it as a landmark development that has positioned the state on the global aviation map.

The convener further pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects across the state, including major road rehabilitations and expansion of industrial zones, as evidence of the administration’s impact.

Arabambi maintained that stakeholders in Ogun East had already aligned behind Abiodun as a consensus candidate, stressing that the decision reflects the will of party members.

He urged delegates of the All Progressives Congress to support the governor’s senatorial bid, insisting that his leadership record makes him best suited to represent the district at the National Assembly.

The statement underscores growing political realignments ahead of party primaries, as contestations intensify within the ruling party in Ogun State.