Obidients Dig Up EFCC Case Against Edo APC Chairman Jarret Tenebe After Threats to Peter Obi
Tension Rises in Edo Politics as Old EFCC Case Resurfaces
Supporters of Peter Obi, popularly known as the Obidients, have resurrected a 2017 Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) case against the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman, Jarret Tenebe, following recent political tension stirred by comments allegedly made by Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo regarding Mr Obi’s visit to the state.
The move by Obidients has reignited scrutiny into the past of key political actors in Edo State, especially after a viral video allegedly showed Governor Okpebholo warning Peter Obi against visiting the state without his clearance.
What Happened: Viral Video Sparks Outrage
According to a video obtained by Edo Today, Governor Monday Okpebholo was heard issuing a stern message during a political rally held in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area. In the video, he reportedly stated:
“This message is for the man who claims he has no ‘shishi’,” referring to Peter Obi’s popular mantra of frugal living.
“There’s a new sheriff in town. He cannot just come into Edo without informing me. His security will not be guaranteed. If anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. I’m not joking.”
These remarks were interpreted by many Obi supporters as a direct threat to the safety of the former Anambra State governor, prompting widespread reactions on social media and within political circles.
Obidients Respond: “We Know Who You Are”
In swift response, Obidients began to share screenshots of a 2017 EFCC report, revealing that Jarret Tenebe, now APC chairman in Edo State and a staunch supporter of Governor Okpebholo, had once been arraigned by the EFCC over alleged oil fraud.
According to the EFCC report dated December 18, 2017, Jarret Tenebe and his company, Fenix Impex Nigeria Limited, were brought before Justice A.S. Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja on multiple charges related to oil dealings.
This revelation has sparked conversations around the credibility and moral stance of some APC figures in Edo State, with many Obidients calling for public accountability.
EFCC Case Recap: Jarret Tenebe and Fenix Impex
In the report by the EFCC, Jarret Tenebe was arraigned on allegations bordering on oil fraud involving his company, Fenix Impex Nigeria Limited. While the final outcome of the case was not included in the publicly available portion of the EFCC’s publication, the mere fact that a state party chairman was once arraigned by the anti-graft agency has raised eyebrows.
Governor Okpebholo Reacts: No Threat Intended
In a clarifying statement released after the backlash, Governor Monday Okpebholo denied issuing any threat against Mr Peter Obi. According to him, his remarks were misinterpreted.
He stated that:
“I only emphasized the need for high-profile individuals, especially politically-exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the state government before any public event in Edo.”
Governor Okpebholo also emphasized his constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors in the state, adding that his message was not intended to incite fear or threaten any political leader.
Political Undercurrents Ahead of Edo 2024 Guber Race
This clash occurs in the build-up to the 2024 governorship elections in Edo State, where tensions are high, and political alignments are being redefined. With Peter Obi still enjoying significant grassroots support across the state, particularly among young voters, any perceived threat against him is bound to spark intense reactions.
The resurfacing of Jarret Tenebe’s EFCC history has added another layer of drama to the unfolding political season, with many questioning the kind of leadership the APC intends to offer the people of Edo State.
Public Sentiment: “We Will Not Be Bullied”
Many Edo residents have taken to social media to voice their concerns. Hashtags like #EndBadGovernance, #EdoDecides, and #JusticeForObi have started trending, with users calling out political intimidation and urging transparency in leadership.
Conclusion
This development highlights the increasing role of civic awareness and digital activism in Nigerian politics. As Obidients dig deep into the background of those attempting to intimidate their movement, it becomes clear that no political leader is beyond public scrutiny.
The coming weeks will determine how these revelations impact Edo’s political climate and whether candidates will address or downplay past allegations and controversies.
Stay with us at Edo Today for verified updates and deep dives into the political dynamics shaping our state.
