The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Jarrett Tenebe, has downplayed the political influence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the state, saying the opposition party does not currently pose a significant challenge to the ruling party’s dominance.
Speaking in a broadcast interview on PFm TV that circulated widely on social media, Tenebe rejected assertions that the ADC’s growing presence was causing panic among APC leaders. He said the ADC was not a threat and that the APC remains focused on internal organisation, including electronic member registration.
“I don’t think we have anything to do with them because they are not a threat. Maybe they were a threat before, but they are not a threat now,” Tenebe said, using a metaphor to suggest the party should not expend effort on groups he sees as inconsequential.
Tenebe also responded to criticism from former APC National Chairman and former Edo governor Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, who defected to the ADC and has voiced concerns about APC dynamics in the state. Tenebe attributed recent opposition statements to internal disputes within the ADC, including reports of disagreements over its state secretariat.
“If they are directing the crisis they have within their party, they should check themselves. APC is a disciplined and focused party,” he said.
On the APC’s own activities, Tenebe said the party is concentrating on its e-registration exercise and that many smaller parties have lost membership to APC, boosting its strength both in Edo and nationally.
“We don’t even know whether ADC exists in Edo State. The only people I know in ADC here are John Odigie-Oyegun and Oserheimen Osunbor. Those are the tired leaders I know,” said Tenebe, referring to prominent figures associated with the opposition party.
He also claimed that the two former APC leaders owe outstanding party dues from their time in the APC — a remark he said would soon be addressed.
Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential election, Tenebe reiterated the APC’s goal of securing **3.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying nothing would deter the party from achieving that target.
“We promised 3.5 million votes to the President. If my hand will be an impediment, I will cut it off. If it is my head, I will cut it off,” he said.
Tenebe further praised the performance of APC governors, including in Edo, suggesting that visible governance achievements would strengthen electoral prospects. He compared this with the Lagos model of sustained APC governance.
He concluded by warning opposition parties against efforts he described as distractions, insisting that the APC has consolidated its position in the state and plans to remain in power.
“They should face their own problems and leave us. This state will remain with APC for a very long time,” Tenebe said.
