By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has hailed the successful conduct of its ward congresses stating that it is a major boost to internal democracy, party unity and grassroots cohesion across the state.
This was disclosed by the State Chairman of the party, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, on Tuesday while briefing journalists at the party’s state secretariat in Benin, following the conclusion of the congresses held on February 18, 2026, in all the 192 wards of the state.
Tenebe described the rancour-free exercise as a watershed in Edo’s political development, noting that the congresses were conducted strictly in line with the guidelines of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).
According to him, the smooth process underscored the APC’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity and internal democracy, stressing that democratic values must first be entrenched within political parties to be credible in governance.
“The peaceful and seamless conduct of the ward congresses is clear evidence that our party in Edo State remains united, disciplined and forward-looking. There was no rancour, division or disharmony among members,” he said.
The APC chairman commended party faithful at the grassroots for their cooperation and maturity, describing the outcome of the congresses as a collective achievement that reflected the strength and organisation of the party across the state.
He congratulated the newly elected ward executives, reminding them that their emergence marked the beginning of greater responsibility rather than an end, and charged them to strengthen party structures at the grassroots.
Tenebe described the ward as the foundation of the party’s political machinery, urging the new executives to mobilise members, expand the APC’s support base and sustain unity within their communities.
“The ward is the closest arm of the party to the electorate. You must foster unity, build consensus and ensure sustained engagement with the people,” he said.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Tenebe emphasised the strategic importance of the ongoing voter registration exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as central to the party’s electoral strategy.
He recalled the commitment of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to deliver 3.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, stressing that the target could only be achieved through coordinated grassroots mobilisation.
He therefore charged the newly elected ward executives to lead aggressive voter mobilisation campaigns, encourage eligible citizens to register and sensitise them on the importance of collecting and safeguarding their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
He also urged party leaders to work closely with local government executives to sustain discipline and unity within the APC, noting that cohesion must be continuous and not tied to electoral cycles.