A fresh wave of controversy is brewing within the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress following allegations of irregularities and favoritism in the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms ahead of the party’s State House of Assembly primaries.
The development has triggered anxiety among party members and stakeholders, raising concerns about unity and internal cohesion as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
Sources within the party disclosed that tensions escalated after several aspirants reportedly encountered difficulties in obtaining nomination forms for the forthcoming primaries across the 24 state constituencies. The exercise, scheduled to culminate later this month, is already generating considerable controversy.
At the center of the storm is the Edo State APC Chairman, Jarret Tenebe, who has been accused by aggrieved members of selectively granting access to forms while allegedly favoring certain aspirants, particularly some incumbent lawmakers seeking re-election.
Party insiders further alleged that some serving members of the Edo State House of Assembly are attempting to override established zoning and rotational arrangements within their constituencies, a move that has heightened discontent among grassroots stakeholders.
According to sources, concerns have also been raised over claims that prior agreements within the party have been unilaterally altered, with endorsements allegedly being granted outside the established consultative process.
Some aspirants reportedly had to seek intervention from the party’s national leadership before they could access the required forms, underscoring the seriousness of the grievances.
A party source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, warned that any attempt to deny aspirants a fair contest could have far-reaching implications for party unity and electoral prospects.
There are also growing calls for the intervention of Governor Monday Okpebholo and other senior party leaders to ensure transparency, fairness, and adherence to the party’s guidelines.
Stakeholders insist that the APC’s internal rules are unambiguous: where consensus cannot be reached, all aspirants must be allowed to participate in a credible and transparent primary election.
Many party faithful fear that failure to address the situation promptly could trigger avoidable divisions and undermine the party’s chances in future elections.
As the primaries approach, attention will be focused on how the leadership resolves the crisis and restores confidence among members.
