The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has clarified its position on the upcoming local government chairmanship elections, emphasizing fairness and reward for loyal members. State Chairman Jarret Tenebe addressed concerns about pre-determined outcomes, assuring that no tickets have been ceded to any individual. He stressed the party’s commitment to a transparent and competitive nomination process, aligning with the APC’s established principles of internal democracy. While acknowledging the need to recognize and reward dedicated members who supported the party during its time in opposition, Tenebe underscored that such recognition would not compromise the integrity of the primaries. This assurance comes as the party prepares for the November 2026 local government elections, seeking to build a strong slate of candidates through a fair and open selection process.
Tenebe’s statement sought to dispel rumors and misinformation surrounding the upcoming primaries. He explicitly stated that the authority to screen aspirants and conduct primaries rests solely with the State Working Committee (SWC), not with individual leaders within the party. This clarification is crucial for maintaining internal cohesion and ensuring that the selection process adheres to the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines. By emphasizing the SWC’s role, Tenebe reinforced the importance of established procedures and the need to avoid undue influence or favoritism in candidate selection. He urged party members to rely on official communication from the SWC regarding the local government elections and primaries to avoid confusion and misinformation.
The APC’s commitment to rewarding those who stood by the party during its challenging period in opposition reflects a broader principle of recognizing and appreciating loyalty and dedication within its ranks. These individuals played a vital role in maintaining the party’s presence and relevance in Edo State, contributing significantly to its eventual return to power. Acknowledging their contributions reinforces the value of steadfastness and commitment within the party’s culture. However, this commitment to rewarding loyalty is carefully balanced with the imperative of ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants. The party intends to strike a balance between acknowledging past contributions and fostering a competitive environment that encourages participation and allows the best candidates to emerge.
The emphasis on a transparent and competitive primary process demonstrates the APC’s commitment to internal democracy. By providing a fair opportunity for all eligible aspirants to compete for nominations, the party fosters a sense of inclusivity and strengthens its internal structure. This approach also allows for the identification of the most capable and qualified candidates, increasing the party’s chances of success in the local government elections. A robust and competitive primary process ultimately benefits the party by ensuring that the individuals chosen to represent the APC are those who possess the necessary skills, experience, and public support.
Tenebe’s appeal for party members to disregard information not originating from the SWC underscores the importance of maintaining clear and consistent communication within the party. This is particularly crucial in the run-up to elections, when misinformation and rumors can easily spread, potentially creating confusion and division. By directing members to rely on official channels for information, the party seeks to maintain control over the narrative and ensure that its message is accurately conveyed. This approach helps prevent the spread of false narratives and maintains a unified front within the party.
The Edo State APC’s approach to the upcoming local government elections reflects a broader effort to consolidate its position and maintain its relevance in the state’s political landscape. By emphasizing internal democracy and rewarding loyalty, the party aims to build a stronger, more cohesive, and unified organization. The commitment to a transparent and competitive primary process not only strengthens the party’s internal structure but also enhances its public image by demonstrating a commitment to fairness and inclusivity. As the November 2026 elections approach, the Edo State APC is focused on building a strong foundation for success by ensuring a fair and transparent selection process for its candidates.
