Election Alert: ADC Alleges Threat of Violence in Edo Ahead of 2027 Polls!

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Edo State has voiced strong objections to the declaration made by the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman, Jarret Tenebe, regarding the 2027 presidential election. Tenebe had stated that the APC would secure 2.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming election. In response, Chris Ojeikere, the Edo State ADC spokesperson, vehemently accused Tenebe of instigating and threatening election violence within Edo State.

Ojeikere highlighted a pattern of behavior, alleging that Tenebe is a "known purveyor of violence, election and political brigandage." The ADC spokesperson drew a direct link between Tenebe's past statements and an alleged attack on the ADC secretariat in Edo State. According to Ojeikere, Tenebe had previously declared non-recognition of ADC and threatened to "smoke out" anyone identifying as ADC, a statement that was reportedly followed by the burning of the secretariat within two weeks. This historical context underscores the gravity with which the ADC views Tenebe's current remarks.

The ADC spokesperson urged both the Nigerian populace and security agencies to pay close attention to the language employed by the APC chairman. Ojeikere emphasized that Tenebe's military background makes his comments particularly concerning, alleging that he went AWOL from the army and that his training in weapon use should make his words taken seriously as more than mere exaggeration. Ojeikere further accused Tenebe of demonstrating a disregard for human lives and doing a disservice to the nation through his rhetoric.

In light of these allegations, the ADC is calling upon the APC, the Federal Government, and all Nigerians to acknowledge and address Tenebe’s statements. The party has warned that it will hold Tenebe responsible for any election violence that may occur in Benin City and other parts of Edo State. Furthermore, Ojeikere confirmed that the ADC plans to submit a video recording of the APC chairman's comments to security agencies, treating it as a formal complaint regarding threats of "fire and brimstone." The ADC spokesperson also cited reports of violence in Osun State, where similar threats allegedly led to the deaths of approximately 40 persons, stressing that such warnings should not be dismissed as insignificant in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

Despite these serious concerns, Ojeikere conveyed the ADC's unwavering confidence in the electorate and the resilience of the democratic process. He asserted that the will of the people constitutes a force far greater than any military or political brigandage. The ADC firmly believes that Nigerian citizens will ultimately determine the outcome of the 2027 presidential election, expressing confidence that "Nigerians will come out and vote Atiku Abubakar come 2027."