Tenebe Dismisses Rift Rumours With Oshiomhole, Assures Seamless APC Congress, Stronger Party Ahead of 2027

From Chris Akhabue 

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, has dismissed reports of internal divisions within the party, insisting that preparations for the forthcoming party congress are on course and that the APC remains united behind the state governor and national leadership.

Speaking during a media chat in Benin City, yesterday, Tenebe addressed several issues ranging from his relationship with former Edo State Governor and party leader, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, to concerns about party inclusiveness, opposition defections, and the party’s electoral strategy ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

He said there was no rift within the APC leadership describing the claim of a strained relationship between him and Senator Oshiomhole as unfounded, stating that the APC leadership in Edo State remains cohesive.

According to him, "the party’s current leader in the state is Governor Monday Okpeholo, and any perceived differences that existed during the party primaries have long been resolved.

“The only point where we differed was during the primaries, when I insisted that the right processes be followed,” he explained. “But after the primaries, we campaigned together, won together, and have continued to work together. There are absolutely no cracks.”

Tenebe noted that his tenure as chairman has largely been under a caretaker arrangement and that the upcoming congress would formally confirm him as substantive chairman. He expressed confidence that the party would not abandon what he described as a “winning team.”

“Our task now is to support the governor to succeed. The party must ensure that campaign promises are fulfilled so the people enjoy the dividends of democracy,” he said.

He also revealed that consultations and endorsements within the party had already been concluded ahead of the congress, suggesting a smooth process.

“Our congress will be seamless, and after that, the national convention will follow. APC will emerge stronger,” he said, adding that he remains loyal to the party leadership and ready to serve in any capacity if asked.

Responding to concerns from party members who feel sidelined after working for the party’s victory, Tenebe argued that governance should not be limited only to loyalists while excluding former opponents who are willing to work with the government.

He said Governor Okpeholo was deliberately pursuing inclusive governance to foster unity across political divides.

“It would not be wise to reject people who now see reason and want to join hands in developing the state,” he said. “The governor is not controversial, and our belief was that he would unite Edo State.”

Tenebe maintained that political rivalry ends after elections, emphasizing that development requires cooperation among all stakeholders. He accused some individuals of attempting to create division for personal political gains but insisted that the governor remains focused on unity.

“At rallies, you see politicians from different parties together. That unity is necessary for development,” he said.

On preparations for the next presidential election, Tenebe expressed confidence that Edo State could deliver between three and 3.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in 2027. He disclosed that several opposition figures and party leaders at local government levels are already defecting to the APC, which he said signals the weakening of opposition parties in the state.

According to him, the party is mobilising Edo voters residing outside the state to return home during elections, with logistical support already being discussed with donors. He also cited party mobilisation efforts, including mass distribution of campaign materials, as evidence of preparation for future elections.

“In the last election, we did not achieve 25 percent votes for the president here. If we correct that in 2027, Edo State stands to gain more federal appointments and influence,” he said.

Asked whether the continued collapse of opposition parties into the APC could weaken democratic competition, Tenebe argued that it is not the responsibility of the ruling party to sustain opposition groups. “The constitution guarantees freedom of association. If people want to join APC, we will welcome them,” he said, adding that opposition parties must strengthen themselves rather than blame the ruling party.

He also dismissed allegations that opposition members are being coerced or induced to defect, arguing that political actors join parties based on perceived leadership direction and governance performance.

On whether economic hardship could affect APC’s electoral prospects, Tenebe acknowledged existing challenges but insisted that the current administration is addressing longstanding issues.

He attributed parts of the nation’s security and economic challenges to past developments and maintained that progress is being made under President Tinubu’s leadership. “Security challenges did not start with this administration, but efforts are ongoing to tackle them,” he said, expressing optimism that economic conditions would continue to improve.

Tenebe concluded by reiterating his confidence in the APC’s unity in Edo State and nationally, stating that ongoing consultations and preparations would strengthen the party ahead of future elections.

He emphasized that unity within the party and inclusive governance remain central to delivering development to Edo residents.