News, Politics

Edo APC Chairman Tenebe Targets 3.5 Million Votes for Tinubu in 2027, Denies Rift with Oshiomhole

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 7th, 2026.

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, says the party has begun strategic preparations to deliver as many as 3.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Tenebe, who was recently re-elected to lead the party in the state, made the remarks while discussing the party’s internal dynamics, preparations for upcoming congresses, and the broader political landscape in Edo.

Addressing speculation about a strained relationship with former Edo State governor, Adams Oshiomhole, Tenebe dismissed the claims, stating that the two leaders maintain a cordial working relationship within the party.

According to him, the only disagreement between them occurred during the party’s primary process, when he insisted on strict adherence to internal procedures. He explained that once the primaries were concluded, party members united behind the candidate and worked collectively to secure victory in the election.

Tenebe stressed that there are no divisions within the party leadership in Edo, adding that the APC remains united under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, whom he described as the party’s leader in the state.

He noted that the priority of the party is to support the governor in delivering on campaign promises and implementing the party’s manifesto for the people of Edo State.

Tenebe also expressed confidence that the forthcoming party congresses would proceed smoothly, emphasizing that consultations among party stakeholders had already been concluded. He said the process would strengthen the party ahead of its national convention.

Responding to concerns raised by some party members who claim they were sidelined after contributing to the party’s electoral victory, Tenebe maintained that no one was deliberately excluded. He explained that politics often involves shifting alliances and that individuals who previously opposed the party but now wish to work with the government should not be rejected.

He said Governor Okpebholo was chosen partly because of his reputation as a unifying figure who could bring together diverse political interests across the state. According to Tenebe, governance should focus on development rather than political retribution.

On the APC’s ambition to secure 3.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the next presidential election, Tenebe said the party had conducted internal voter assessments which showed that Edo has a large number of registered voters, many of whom currently live outside the state.

He explained that party officials are reaching out to Edo indigenes residing in other parts of the country, encouraging them to return home during elections to participate in the voting process.

Tenebe added that the party is also strengthening its grassroots structures and engaging political figures from other parties at the local government level. According to him, some leaders from opposition parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, have indicated interest in joining the APC.

He argued that the growing alignment of political actors with the ruling party reflects confidence in the direction of the federal government and the prospects of the APC.

Addressing criticism that assisting supporters with travel or logistics during elections could amount to inducement, Tenebe insisted that such efforts are simply part of political mobilisation. He said encouraging registered voters to return home and exercise their civic rights does not constitute vote buying.

On the issue of opposition parties losing members to the APC, Tenebe said it is not the responsibility of the ruling party to sustain the opposition. He pointed out that the constitution guarantees freedom of association and that individuals are free to join any political party they choose.

He argued that opposition parties must strengthen their own structures and present attractive alternatives if they hope to retain members and remain competitive.

Tenebe also responded to concerns about economic hardship across the country, acknowledging that many Nigerians are facing challenges but suggesting that conditions are gradually improving.

According to him, the current administration inherited serious economic and security challenges that had developed over several years. He expressed confidence that ongoing reforms and security efforts would eventually lead to improvements in agricultural production and economic stability.

He added that the government is working to address insecurity and other structural problems affecting the country, noting that these issues did not emerge overnight but evolved over time due to multiple factors.

Tenebe maintained that with sustained reforms and improved security, the administration’s policies would begin to produce tangible benefits, while the APC continues to strengthen its political structures ahead of the 2027 elections.