Edo will give Tinubu 3.5m votes in 2027 – Tenebe, APC chairman
Edo APC Chairman Projects 3.5 Million Votes for Tinubu in 2027
By Ozioruva Aliu
Emperor Jarret Tenebe, re-elected chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, has expressed confidence that the party will secure 3.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 general elections. In an interview, Tenebe dismissed rumors of a rift with former Edo Governor Adams Oshiomhole and stated that the current state of the opposition is not a concern for the APC.
Addressing questions regarding the party’s dynamics, Tenebe emphasized that the leadership of the APC in Edo is cohesive, underlined by the collaborative efforts among party members. “The insinuation that Senator Oshiomhole and I are not working together is false,” he said, noting that any prior disagreements during the primaries have been resolved.
Tenebe underscored the party’s focus on supporting the state governor, Monday Okpebholo, to ensure effective governance and the delivery of promised public services. “Elections are not individual projects; they are party-driven,” he remarked, asserting his commitment to uphold the party manifesto.
Regarding some complaints from party members about feeling sidelined, Tenebe insisted that no one is intentionally neglected. “Politics is dynamic,” he said, acknowledging that former opponents who now support the governor should be welcomed into the fold.
When asked about the feasibility of garnering 3.5 million votes in 2027, Tenebe stated that the target is achievable. “We have conducted a voter analysis and found approximately three million registered voters in Edo, with many living outside the state,” he explained. Efforts are underway to engage these voters and encourage their participation in the electoral process.
In response to concerns that providing logistical support to voters could be seen as inducement, Tenebe clarified that such mobilization is a part of legitimate political engagement rather than vote buying. “If people choose to return home to vote, that is their civic right,” he said.
As for the potential implications of the opposition’s decline, Tenebe noted that maintaining a robust opposition is not the ruling party’s responsibility. He emphasized that political success is rooted in persuasion and effective governance. “If individuals or parties decide to join the APC, we will welcome them,” he said.
Addressing criticisms regarding defections and claims of underhanded tactics, Tenebe reiterated that political alignment is often a matter of conviction and strategy. “Defection is not new in Nigerian politics; it occurs across party lines,” he remarked.
As the nation faces economic challenges, Tenebe acknowledged the current hardships but emphasized signs of improvement within the economy. He pointed out the government’s initiatives to restore security and stimulate agricultural productivity, suggesting that these efforts will ultimately benefit citizens.
Finally, Tenebe clarified his previous statements linking insecurity to past administrations, arguing that the issue has deep-rooted causes that extend beyond the current government. He affirmed that the administration is actively addressing security concerns to restore stability.
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