Members of the Edo State Executive of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Jarret Tenebe as chairman, were yesterday returned unopposed for a second term of office by delegates from the 192 wards of the state.

At the state congress held at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City and conducted by the chairman of the National State Congress Committee for Edo State, Hon Kabiru Ajana, the delegates reelected the exco members through voice affirmation in a peaceful atmosphere.

Speaking shortly after their reelection, state chairman of the party, Jarret Tenebe, on behalf of the state executive of the party, endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Monday Okpebholo for second terms in office, citing what it described as their outstanding performance.

He also announced the endorsement of former Edo State governor and senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, for a second term in the Senate, citing what he described as quality representation.

“This unanimous voice affirmation is a call to duty, and we are ready to discharge our responsibility and ensure the party continues to put Edo people first while supporting the governor to sustain his developmental strides in the state.

“It is with profound joy and a deep sense of responsibility that I express my sincere appreciation to members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State for the overwhelming confidence reposed in me and other members of the State Executive Committee through our unanimous affirmation at the just-concluded State Congress.

“Reflecting on my journey within our great party, I previously served as Deputy State Chairman during one of the most turbulent periods in the history of the APC in Edo State. Throughout that challenging phase, the unwavering support and commitment of our party faithful enabled us to weather the storm and keep the party united and focused.

“In the course of discharging my responsibilities, I may have stepped on toes. Where my actions may have offended anyone while carrying out my duties in strengthening the democratic foundations of our party, I sincerely offer my apologies. Every decision taken was done in good faith and in the overall interest of the APC.

“I was also actively involved in the leadership processes during a defining electoral period that reshaped the political landscape of Edo State, particularly in the build-up to the 2024 governorship election. That period was marked by diverse political interests and differing opinions, which naturally created internal tensions. However, all actions taken were guided by the collective goal of positioning our party for success and progress. To all who felt aggrieved at any point, I extend a hand of reconciliation and goodwill as we move forward together to build a stronger Edo State.”

He described their reelection as the beginning of a new chapter, one that has already become a model and reference point for other states across the federation.

“As we embark on this new beginning, I emphasise the urgent need for unity, cohesion, and inclusivity within our party and across the state,” Tenebe added.

He commended delegates for their trust and overwhelming confidence in the executive, pledging that the team would pilot the affairs of the party to greater heights, just as he thanked party faithful for their unwavering support, which he said helped the party weather challenging periods and remain united.

Also speaking, Senator Adams Oshiomhole thanked delegates for re-electing the Tenebe-led executive, describing the exercise as seamless and symbolic of party unity in Edo State.

“I thank all the delegates for a seamless exercise which symbolises the unity of the party in Edo State. This unity makes a bold statement about the leadership of Governor Okpebholo. We celebrate the governor for the unity in the party,” he said.

Among the dignitaries at the state congress were the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Dennis Idahosa; the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Musa Ikhilor; and other senior party leaders and members.