A diaspora group, Edo in the Diaspora, has called for the immediate resignation of the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarret Tenebe, while urging the international community to monitor developments in the state over concerns about alleged threats, harassment and political intimidation.
The group also appealed to the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Germany, France and other relevant countries to review available evidence concerning allegations against the APC chairman and consider appropriate visa restrictions, including a visa ban, where justified by the evidence and applicable laws.
In a statement on Friday signed by its Diaspora Coordinator, Hon. Anthony Nigro Erhabor, Esq., the group said the concerns required attention to protect democratic participation and the rights of citizens.
Erhabor said the call followed what he described as recurring controversies surrounding Tenebe’s public statements and conduct.
He expressed concern over a reported pronouncement involving the use of AK-47 firearms against Edo voters, adding that allegations of threats, harassment and intimidation involving political loyalists should be properly examined by the relevant authorities
He stressed that the claims required appropriate scrutiny and that citizens should be able to express their political opinions without fear.
According to Erhabor, the controversies have implications for the image of Edo State and Nigeria, particularly among citizens living abroad.
He said Edo’s cultural heritage and achievements should not
be overshadowed by political disputes, adding that public officeholders and party leaders should demonstrate restraint and responsibility in their statements and actions.The group, therefore, called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to address the concerns and prevail on Tenebe to resign as state APC chairman.
Erhabor also appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the APC to take the allegations seriously, stressing that party affiliation should not prevent concerns about political conduct from receiving appropriate attention.
He maintained that any investigation or disciplinary action should be guided by credible evidence and established procedures.
Erhabor further urged the international community and relevant foreign governments to closely monitor political developments in Edo State, particularly reports of threats against citizens, harassment and intimidation linked to political activities.
He said any consideration of visa restrictions should be based on credible evidence and the applicable laws of the countries concerned, rather than political disagreements or unverified allegations.
The diaspora coordinator said the group would continue to raise concerns about developments in its home state, adding that its position was informed by the need to protect citizens’ rights, strengthen democratic participation and promote responsible political leadership.
He called on the relevant authorities to respond to the issues raised and ensure that Edo residents can participate in political activities freely and safely, irrespective of their party affiliations.
