No Rift In Edo APC! Tenebe: United To Deliver 3.5M Votes For Tinubu

According to reports, Jarret Tenebe, the re-elected Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, has expressed strong confidence that the party will mobilize approximately 3.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. Tenebe dismissed rumors of a rift between himself and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, affirming that the APC in Edo remains united and focused on its goals.

In a recent interview, Tenebe defended the economic and security policies of the Federal Government, acknowledging that while the reforms may be challenging, they are necessary for national progress. He described speculations about tensions within the Edo APC as unfounded and reiterated that the party leadership stands firmly behind Governor Monday Okpebholo.

“The leader of the party in Edo is the governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo. The insinuation that Senator Oshiomhole and I are not working together is false,” Tenebe stated. He added that any disagreement with Oshiomhole occurred only during party primaries, where he insisted on proper due process. “After the primaries, we campaigned together and won. Since then, we have worked harmoniously. There are no cracks in the party,” he said.

Tenebe further emphasized that the APC would not replace what he described as a “winning team,” highlighting the importance of supporting the governor to succeed. He expressed optimism that the upcoming party congress in Edo would proceed smoothly and noted that consultations had been completed, with endorsements received for him to continue as chairman.

Addressing concerns that some members had been sidelined post-election, Tenebe dismissed the claims, stressing that politics is dynamic and inclusive governance is the priority. He praised Governor Okpebholo’s selection for his reputation as a unifying figure and reiterated that political vendettas should not influence governance.

On plans to secure 3.5 million votes for Tinubu, Tenebe stated that the target is achievable, citing voter analysis and efforts to engage Edo indigenes living outside the state. He also noted that the party is attracting members from opposition parties and intends to improve its performance from the last presidential election, where APC secured less than 25 percent of votes in Edo.

Responding to criticisms that assisting supporters with logistics could constitute vote buying, Tenebe insisted that mobilizing registered voters is part of standard campaigning and a civic right. He also dismissed concerns that defections from opposition parties undermine democracy, arguing that political movement reflects persuasion, performance, and freedom of association.

Tenebe acknowledged the economic challenges faced by Nigerians but noted signs of improvement, including stabilizing food prices. He highlighted that the current administration inherited significant structural challenges, including insecurity, and emphasized that reforms, though painful, are necessary. He argued that improvements in security would bolster agriculture and food supply, and noted that the nation’s security challenges predate the current government.