The Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, has urged voters in the state to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 and reject the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following remarks attributed to former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
Tenebe described Amaechi’s comments about supporters of Tinubu as reckless and irresponsible, arguing that political disagreements should not be an excuse to insult voters.
Amaechi reportedly made the remarks during an ADC town hall meeting in Benin City on Thursday, October 8, where he urged Edo voters to reject Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Reacting to the comments, Tenebe said it was inappropriate for a politician seeking the support of Edo residents to disparage people because of their political preferences.
He maintained that voters in the state were capable of making informed electoral choices without intimidation or derogatory remarks from politicians.
According to the APC chairman, democracy thrives on persuasion, competing ideas and respect for voters, rather than ridicule directed at citizens supporting a particular candidate.
Tenebe questioned Amaechi’s approach to political engagement, saying public figures, particularly those who had held prominent political offices, should demonstrate tolerance and responsibility in their public statements.
He added that political leaders seeking public office had a duty to exercise restraint as activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gathered momentum.
The APC chairman also called on security agencies to caution politicians against inflammatory statements that could heighten political tensions or trigger confrontations among supporters of rival parties.
He stressed that citizens’ right to support candidates of their choice was fundamental to democracy and should be respected regardless of party affiliation.
Tenebe said political differences should be addressed through constructive engagement and debate on policies, programmes and records of public service.
He urged Edo voters to assess the parties and their candidates before making their choices at the ballot box, while reiterating the APC’s call for support for Tinubu and other party candidates in the 2027 elections.
Tenebe expressed confidence in the APC’s position in Edo State, saying the party would continue to engage voters on its programmes and the Tinubu administration’s record.
