The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Chief Jarrett Tenebe, has criticised former Rivers State Governor and African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, over his remarks concerning Edo voters who support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Amaechi made the comments on Thursday, October 8, 2026, during an ADC town hall meeting in Benin City, where he urged Edo voters to reject Tinubu’s re-election bid.
During the meeting, the former Minister of Transportation criticised those supporting the President, making remarks that have drawn a reaction from the Edo APC chairman.
Reacting to the development, Tenebe said Amaechi’s comments were disrespectful to the people of Edo State and could heighten political tensions if similar statements continued.
The Edo APC chairman called on security agencies to caution political leaders against making inflammatory statements, stressing the need for restraint in public discourse as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election gather momentum.
Tenebe maintained that visiting Edo State to seek political support should be accompanied by respect for the electorate and their right to make independent political choices.
He stressed that democracy allows citizens to support candidates and political parties of their choice, adding that differences in political opinion should be addressed through persuasion, policy debates and constructive engagement.
The APC chairman also questioned Amaechi’s approach to political disagreements, arguing that political leaders should demonstrate tolerance for differing opinions and respect the choices of voters.
Tenebe urged Edo residents to support the APC and reject the ADC in the forthcoming elections, expressing confidence in his party’s political standing in the state.
The exchange comes as political parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general election, with the APC seeking to consolidate support for President Tinubu’s re-election and opposition parties working to expand their influence.
The controversy has renewed attention on the tone of political campaigns and the responsibility of political leaders to engage voters respectfully, even when addressing competing political interests.
As preparations for the 2027 general election continue, the incident highlights the importance of issue-based campaigns, peaceful political engagement and respect for Nigerians’ constitutional right to choose their leaders.
