Jarrett Tenebe, the chairman of the APC in Edo, claims that gubernatorial candidate Monday Okpebholo will not appear on Arise TV due to residents' inability to afford cable subscriptions. This statement has sparked criticism from the public, linking economic struggles to the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki.
In a recent appearance on Arise Television, Jarrett Tenebe, the chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, announced that Monday Okpebholo, the party's candidate in the upcoming gubernatorial election, would not participate in an interview request due to the inability of many Edo residents to afford cable TV subscriptions. This statement came as a response to inquiries about why Okpebholo had yet to appear on Arise TV's 'Morning Show', despite other candidates, like Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party and Asue Ighodalo of the PDP, having participated.
Tenebe attributed the situation to the perceived impoverishment of the state's populace under Governor Godwin Obaseki's leadership, stating, "Obaseki has impoverished the state to that level." He suggested that with only about 80,000 residents able to afford DStv subscriptions, it wouldn't be beneficial for Okpebholo to speak to an audience that largely cannot engage with cable channels.
Social media reactions to Tenebe’s comments have been mixed, with many Edo residents expressing frustration and disbelief. Some pointed out that the economic struggles in the state can be linked to broader national policies enacted by the federal government. Comments such as, "Who is to be blamed for the hunger? Is it, not the APC-led federal government?" and "My message to my Edo people, please avoid APC at all costs," illustrate the discontent among the electorate.
Others shared feelings of embarrassment over the statements made by the APC chair, with remarks highlighting the disconnect between the political elite and the everyday realities faced by citizens. As the September 21 election approaches, these dynamics reflect the growing scrutiny and pressure on candidates to address the economic challenges impacting the lives of Edo residents.
