APC Chairman has sparked a fresh outrage over divisive outburst against Peter Obi.
In a shocking and divisive outburst, the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarrett Tenebe, has openly declared that former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is “hated” in Edo State and should seek permission before setting foot in the state.
Tenebe’s inflammatory comments, captured in a viral video, have sparked widespread condemnation as critics accuse the APC of promoting hate, political thuggery, and intolerance under the guise of governance.
Defending Governor Monday Okpebholo who has come under fire for saying that Peter Obi must request permission before visiting Edo, Tenebe doubled down, saying:
“The governor was right. We support him. The hatred people have for Peter Obi in this state, including myself, justifies why he needs to take permission before coming.”
Tenebe, without any evidence, claimed that Obi’s past visits to the state resulted in deaths, saying:
“When they came to Edo State and people died, it is proper for him to tell the governor before he comes—so people like us can be sent on errands or out of the state before he arrives.”
The comments, widely seen as reckless and dangerous, have been interpreted as veiled threats and a dangerous sign of the APC’s desperation ahead of upcoming elections.
In an even more disturbing twist, Tenebe took aim at members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warning:
“If you want to identify with ADC, you have to leave Edo for us.”
Political observers say the remarks not only undermine democracy and freedom of association but expose the APC’s growing fear of the popularity of opposition figures like Peter Obi. Many are calling on security agencies and civil rights groups to investigate the intent and implications of Tenebe’s comments.
The APC’s silence on the matter, critics say, further reinforces the party’s troubling embrace of divisive rhetoric and its apparent disdain for political plurality in Edo State.