APC Rift Deepens in Edo as Tenebe’s “Serial Loser” Remark Sparks Political Firestorm
By Elvis Omoregie
What appeared to be a routine caution by Edo State APC Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, has spiraled into a full-blown political controversy, exposing cracks within the party’s ranks ahead of the Edo South senatorial contest.
Tenebe’s remarks during a televised interview—urging the party to avoid fielding “serial losers”—have triggered an outsized reaction from supporters of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, despite the absence of any direct mention of his name.
In the interview, Tenebe emphasized strategic candidate selection as central to achieving the party’s ambitious electoral targets, including delivering 3.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu.
His comments underscored a results-driven approach, citing the electoral strength of figures like Adams Oshiomhole as benchmarks for viability. However, the interpretation of those remarks by Ize-Iyamu’s camp has reframed a general advisory into a perceived personal attack.
The response from Ize-Iyamu’s allies has been swift and pointed, accusing Tenebe of disloyalty and external influence. Some have gone as far as alleging interference from powerful political actors outside Edo State, suggesting an orchestrated attempt to sideline certain aspirants.
These claims, largely unsubstantiated, have added a layer of intrigue to what is increasingly becoming a factional struggle within the state chapter of the APC.
At the heart of the dispute lies a deeper question of political calculation. By reacting strongly to a non-specific comment, Ize-Iyamu’s camp may have inadvertently reinforced the narrative it sought to reject.
The episode highlights the sensitivity surrounding candidacy decisions and the high stakes tied to party endorsements in a competitive political environment.
Insider accounts further complicate the narrative, pointing to lingering tensions between Ize-Iyamu and Governor Monday Okpebholo. Reports suggest that prior to the APC primaries, efforts were made to persuade Ize-Iyamu to step down in favor of Okpebholo, with assurances allegedly discussed at the highest levels. His eventual decision to suspend rather than withdraw from the race is said to have strained relations and raised questions about political trust.
Since the elections, Ize-Iyamu is believed to have benefited from significant government-backed opportunities, including contracts and institutional support linked to his network.
Yet, his continued political ambitions—particularly his senatorial bid—appear to be testing the patience of key stakeholders who prioritize party unity and electoral pragmatism.
Critics argue that electoral performance should remain the primary معيار for candidate selection. They point to Ize-Iyamu’s track record, including reported losses at the grassroots level, as a critical factor in assessing his viability. For a party focused on consolidating gains, the risk of backing candidates perceived as electorally weak is seen as a strategic liability.
Beyond internal politics, the debate also brings renewed attention to development concerns in Edo South, particularly in Orhionmwon Local Government Area. Questions persist about the tangible impact of long-standing political figures on infrastructure, healthcare, and economic opportunities in the region. These issues continue to shape voter sentiment and influence political narratives.
As the APC navigates these internal dynamics, the unfolding situation underscores the delicate balance between ambition, loyalty, and strategy in Nigerian politics. With the senatorial race on the horizon, how the party manages dissent and aligns its priorities could prove निर्णative for its electoral fortunes in Edo State.
Ultimately, Tenebe’s remarks may have been intended as a strategic guideline, but the reactions they provoked reveal deeper undercurrents within the party—ones that could shape both its internal cohesion and public perception in the months ahead.
