Crisis in Edo APC: Protests Erupt Over Alleged Imposition

Ahead of the forthcoming Local Government Elections in Edo State, a crisis has rocked the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state over the alleged imposition of a chairmanship candidate.

The political landscape in Edo State has recently been shaken by protests as members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) express their discontent with perceived leadership issues. This crisis has raised significant concerns about the internal dynamics of the APC, leading to divisions among party members and supporters. The situation has escalated, prompting calls for accountability and transparency within the party, as factions clash over leadership choices.

Members of the party in Ovia North-East Local Government Area on Monday, March 16, 2026, staged a peaceful protest alleging that a chieftain of the party is imposing Mr. Christopher Enamatoe as the party’s chairmanship candidate.

The protest was staged by Concerned Ovia North-East Leaders and youths.

The protests are primarily centered around allegations of imposition of candidates by party leadership, which has sparked outrage among grassroots members. Claiming that their voices are being ignored, supporters argue that such actions undermine the democratic process within the APC. They believe that fair representation is crucial for the party's strength moving forward, especially in an election year. The accusations have resonated widely, amplifying discord and drawing attention from observers both within and outside the state.

Speaking to newsmen, the spokesperson of the protesters, Hon. Luggard Ayenoma, however, called for the intervention of the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.

Ayenoma alleged that Mr. Christopher Enamatoe is not a member of the APC and, as such, cannot be given such a vital position in the local government.

He further alleged that the imposed chairmanship candidate once worked against the party as a media agent to the former governor, Godwin Obaseki, in the election that brought Governor Okpebholo to power.

According to him, Ovia North-East Local Government Area is blessed with great potential, but imposing someone with opposition affiliations as chairman because of maternal relationships sounds awful and embarrassing.

“It sidelines legitimate party stakeholders and qualified indigenes from our Local Government Area, weakens cohesion, and undermines the principle of local representation which you advocate for and stand for.He further alleged that the imposed chairmanship candidate once worked against the party as a media agent to the former governor, Godwin Obaseki, in the election that brought Governor Okpebholo to power.

According to him, Ovia North-East Local Government Area is blessed with great potential, but imposing someone with opposition affiliations as chairman because of maternal relationships sounds awful and embarrassing.

“It sidelines legitimate party stakeholders and qualified indigenes from our Local Government Area, weakens cohesion, and undermines the principle of local representation which you advocate for and stand for.

“Our ward leaders and youths, who make up the local government, have already raised concerns. Placing an outsider risks eroding confidence in the government’s fairness in Ovia North-East,” he said.

The protesters called for the halting of the nomination until the process becomes transparent.

They, however, pledged loyalty to the party and expressed willingness to provide a list of qualified indigenes for the party’s consideration.

Reacting to the protest, Peter Uwadaie, the Edo State Publicity Secretary of the APC, described the allegations as speculative.

Uwadaie said the party was yet to conduct primary elections, noting that the allegations of imposition are uncalled for.

Reports has it that the local government election is scheduled for July 2026.

In light of the ongoing protests, the future of the Edo APC hangs in the balance. Party leaders are urged to engage with disgruntled members, fostering dialogue to address grievances. Rebuilding trust will be essential, as divisions could threaten the party's unity and electoral prospects. Moreover, implementing a more transparent nomination process may help mitigate some of the discontent. As the situation develops, the political stability of Edo State may depend on the APC's ability to resolve these internal conflicts and present a united front.