Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Jarrett Tenebe, chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Edo State, has publicly expressed deep frustration over what he described as the poor treatment of Edo APC delegates at the party’s 8th National Convention in Abuja. The complaints arose after numerous party members reported dissatisfaction with how they were handled by security personnel and organisers during the event.
Tenebe highlighted that Edo delegates, who had travelled long distances and personally committed to supporting the party’s national agenda — including mobilising an estimated 3.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election — were sidelined, relegated to the back of queues, and subjected to treatment they considered disrespectful. Delegates and supporters voiced complaints about crowding, restricted access, and rough handling by security officers as they attempted to gain entry to the convention venue.
Videos and social media posts from the event show delegates and supporters questioning why they were kept at the back despite being accredited and actively involved in grassroots campaigns. The heavy security presence and restricted movement around the convention grounds contributed to the negative experience, causing frustration among Edo APC members.
Earlier in the year, Tenebe had publicly projected confidence in Edo APC’s ability to deliver significant electoral returns for the party, asserting that the state would mobilise at least 3.5 million votes for President Tinubu. His remarks at the convention reflected disappointment that the efforts and commitment of Edo delegates were not appropriately acknowledged or respected during the event.
The complaints from Edo APC members form part of a broader conversation within the party about delegate welfare, internal coordination, and recognition of grassroots contributions. Many delegates felt that the hard work of their state chapters was not proportionately reflected in the arrangements and treatment they received at the convention.
The issue of delegate treatment coincided with wider reports of organisational and security challenges at the convention. Eyewitness accounts indicated that security personnel deployed tear gas and tightly controlled access points at Eagle Square in Abuja, causing accredited delegates, supporters, and journalists to struggle through dense crowds and long distances. Many described the situation as unnecessary and distressing.
As of now, neither the APC national leadership nor federal security authorities have issued a formal response addressing Tenebe’s claims or the broader complaints about delegate treatment. The lack of an official explanation has amplified the concerns raised by Edo APC leadership, particularly among party members who feel their contributions to national political mobilisation should be acknowledged with respect and dignity.
The situation surrounding Edo delegates’ experience at the National Convention highlights ongoing debates in Nigerian politics about the management of party events, the treatment of grassroots actors, and expectations of internal party processes, especially ahead of major elections.
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