Edo APC says state government can’t dispute Jarret Tenebe’s claim of rising poverty
The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) announced on Friday, August 30, that the state government cannot refute the claim made by the party’s state chairman that many people in Edo have fallen below the poverty line.
Jarret Tenebe, who made the statement, has faced criticism for his comments. He explained that poor rural residents are struggling so much that they cannot afford smartphones or data for watching pay-per-view TV.
Tenebe initially shared his views during an interview with Arise TV on Thursday, August 29. He also revealed that APC’s governorship candidate, Mike Okpebholo, will not be participating in an interview request from the channel.
While Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata and the Peoples Democratic Party’s Asue Ighodalo have appeared on the show, Okpebholo has yet to respond to the interview request.
In response, Tenebe argued that Governor Godwin Obaseki has “impoverished” Edo residents to the point where they cannot afford cable TV subscriptions.
The APC’s Director of Publicity, Orobosa Omo-Ojo, stated on Friday, August 30, “With exactly 21 days until the crucial governorship election in Edo State, the All Progressives Congress is pleased to announce that Edo people are determined to reclaim their state from the current leaders who have mismanaged it.”
Omo-Ojo continued, “The widespread infrastructural decay and socioeconomic issues have made it clear that Governor Obaseki and his PDP administration have failed. When voters cast their ballots on September 21, 2024, they will compare the current state of roads, schools, hospitals, and other public services with the improvements seen during the eight years of APC governance under Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.”
He added that Tenebe’s comments accurately reflect the severe hardships caused by the PDP administration. “Any data from outsiders not familiar with Edo State won’t change the reality of our situation. We invite independent journalists to visit the 192 wards to gather real data from local residents.”
The APC is also urging media outlets to highlight the ecological issues in Edo under Governor Obaseki, particularly in the Evbueghae Community. The party is offering to share videos showing the deteriorated conditions in the area.
In a previous response, Chris Nehikhare, the PDP’s Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, condemned Tenebe’s remarks. He stated, “We are disappointed with the APC State Chairman’s comments, which wrongly label Edo people as ‘too poor’ to access pay TV and internet services. This misrepresents the state’s progress and undermines our citizens’ dignity.”
Nehikhare emphasized the state’s economic growth and development, including increasing revenue, improved infrastructure, and initiatives like free internet access. He urged Tenebe to recognize these achievements and engage in constructive dialogue that benefits the community.
