An Abuja-based civil society organisation, the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA), has offered clarification regarding controversial public statements made by the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarrett Tenebe.
The group insists that his comments were taken out of context, seeking to distinguish between spiritual rhetoric and actual acts of political violence.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing, CCLCA Convener Dr. Gabriel Nwambu responded to a viral video in which Tenebe invoked spiritual metaphors—including referencing “AK-47 fire”—against anyone attempting to obstruct the party’s target of securing 2.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
The video had sparked widespread public outcry, drawing strong condemnation from opposition political parties and human rights groups like Amnesty International Nigeria, who warned that such language incites political thuggery and threatens democratic norms.
However, Dr. Nwambu defended the APC state chairman, explaining that Tenebe’s remarks centered on spiritual symbolism rather than physical aggression.
The coalition highlighted that during the same speech, Tenebe explicitly called on law enforcement agencies to maintain public order and urged voters to rely on their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and lawful democratic participation.
Consequently, the group absolved him of allegations of promoting electoral violence, arguing that calls for peaceful voting and police intervention should not be confused with active voter suppression.
While clearing Tenebe, the advocacy group voiced grave concern over a broader pattern of rising voter intimidation, political intolerance, and the unchecked proliferation of arms across the country ahead of 2027. Dr. Nwambu cautioned that democratic contests must remain battles of ideas, policies, and developmental programs rather than arenas for violent coercion.
The coalition highlighted several troubling incidents across different states:
Kano State: Footage circulating from Gwale Local Government Area allegedly showing an assembly candidate associated with the Kwankwasiyya movement carrying a firearm during campaign rallies, an act the group warned normalizes political thuggery.
Enugu State: An attack by armed men on a ward meeting of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Obuoffia, Nkanu West LGA, which resulted in injuries and property destruction.
Ebonyi & Borno States: Provocative statements attributed to Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru and Borno State’s Youth Commissioner, Sainna Buba, which the group warned could inflame political tensions.
Federal Capital Territory: Reported harassment in Kuje Area Council targeting residents perceived to hold non-aligned political views.
Opposition Harassment: Complaints from parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) regarding systemic intimidation, destruction of campaign materials, and restrictions on peaceful assemblies.
To safeguard the credibility of the 2027 general elections, the CCLCA called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to crack down on the illegal possession of arms and hold political agitators accountable regardless of party affiliation.
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