The Recapture of the Edo APC Secretariat: A Triumphant Return After Years of Contention
The political landscape of Edo State witnessed a significant shift on Thursday as the All Progressives Congress (APC) triumphantly reclaimed its party secretariat in Benin City, marking the culmination of a four-year struggle against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The building, a symbol of political power and influence, had been a source of contention between the two parties since former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s defection to the PDP. The APC’s reclamation of the secretariat signifies not only a physical victory but also a symbolic assertion of its renewed strength and determination in the state’s political arena. This event has been hailed by the APC leadership as a crucial step towards consolidating their position and preparing for future political engagements.
Jarrett Tenebe, the Edo APC Chairman, recounted the events that led to the PDP’s takeover of the secretariat. He emphasized that the APC had diligently renewed the lease for the property for seven years, securing the necessary funds from the national office. However, following Obaseki’s defection and subsequent alignment with the PDP, the party allegedly used force to evict the APC, causing damage to property and seizing vehicles. Tenebe’s account paints a picture of a calculated and forceful takeover by the PDP, aided by the former governor’s influence. The APC’s attempts to reclaim the secretariat through legal channels, including reporting the matter to the Inspector General of Police, were reportedly thwarted by the then Commissioner of Police, who allegedly colluded with the former governor. This alleged obstruction of justice further fueled the APC’s determination to regain control of their rightful property.
Tenebe’s ascension to the position of state chairman marked a turning point in the APC’s efforts to reclaim its lost ground. Upon assuming office, he made two key promises: regaining control of the state and recovering all properties unlawfully seized by the PDP and the Obaseki administration. The recent victory of Senator Monday Okpebholo in the governorship election fulfilled the first promise, paving the way for the reclamation of the secretariat. Tenebe described the day of the secretariat’s recovery as the "happiest day of his life," highlighting the significance of this event for the party and its members. This achievement underscores the APC’s commitment to fulfilling its promises and reasserting its authority within the state.
The reclamation of the secretariat was executed with a sense of purpose and determination. The presence of Deputy Commissioner of Police Ben Abang and other senior officers underscored the importance of maintaining order and ensuring a peaceful transition. The escorting of State PDP Chairman Tony Aziegbemi off the premises by Speaker Blessing Agbebaku signaled the APC’s firm resolve to assert its control over the property. While the PDP, through its Publicity Secretary Chris Nehikhare, indicated that it would issue an official statement later on Thursday, the APC wasted no time in solidifying its presence in the reclaimed building. This swift action demonstrated the APC’s preparedness and resolve to avoid any prolonged disputes over the property’s ownership.
The APC’s plans for the secretariat extend beyond mere possession. The party intends to remodel the building to reflect its official style, signaling a new era for the party in Edo State. Tenebe’s vow to resist any attempts to displace the APC from the secretariat underscores the party’s determination to protect its regained asset and prevent future seizures. This commitment to safeguarding the secretariat and other party properties signifies the APC’s long-term vision for its political presence in the state.
The recovery of the Edo APC secretariat represents a significant victory for the party, marking a turning point in its ongoing political battle with the PDP. It symbolizes the APC’s renewed strength and influence in Edo State, setting the stage for future political engagements. The party’s commitment to remodeling the secretariat and resisting any attempts to reclaim it underscores its determination to maintain its hard-won position and solidify its presence in the state’s political landscape. The event serves as a powerful testament to the APC’s resilience and its commitment to fulfilling its promises to its members and the people of Edo State.
