APC Demands N150 Million Debt Payment from Former National Chairman
The political landscape in Nigeria has been stirred by a dramatic demand from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State. The party has formally requested that its former national chairman and former governor of Edo State, John Odigie-Oyegun, pay a substantial debt of N150 million. According to the APC, this amount represents outstanding loans and accumulated membership dues that were incurred during Odigie-Oyegun's tenure as the party's national chairman from 2014 to 2018.
Background of the Debt Allegation
Jarrett Tenebe, the APC chairman in Edo State, issued a detailed statement on Thursday, February 5, 2026, explaining the basis for this demand. He emphasized that the party had made several formal requests for the settlement of these alleged debts, but these efforts yielded no results. The liabilities are said to include loans that were advanced during Odigie-Oyegun's leadership and his membership dues that have accrued over time. Tenebe stated that it became necessary to make this demand public due to the former chairman's refusal to honor his financial obligations to the party.
This move comes at a critical juncture in Nigerian politics, as Odigie-Oyegun recently left the APC to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). His departure is part of a broader opposition coalition movement that aims to challenge the APC and President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 general elections. Since switching parties, Odigie-Oyegun has become an outspoken critic of the ruling administration, actively mobilizing opposition forces ahead of the polls.
Odigie-Oyegun's Response and Political Implications
In response to the APC's allegations, John Odigie-Oyegun has dismissed the debt claim as baseless and politically motivated. He argued that this demand is a clear indication that the APC has recognized the growing threat posed by the ADC's influence, particularly in Edo State. Odigie-Oyegun alleged that instead of engaging in constructive criticism, the APC has resorted to intimidation and violence, dragging Edo State into disrepute.
The former governor highlighted that the ADC, which has been adopted as the political platform by a coalition started by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, comprises many opposition leaders, including former governors, ex-ministers, and other political figures. This coalition is strategically positioning itself to contest the 2027 elections, making the current political climate increasingly tense.
Broader Political Context and Reactions
The demand for debt payment is seen by many as a tactical move by the APC to undermine Odigie-Oyegun's credibility and weaken the opposition's momentum. Public reactions from Nigerians have highlighted the escalating political tensions and strategic maneuvers as parties gear up for the 2027 elections. This incident adds to a series of political dramas, including recent shifts in party allegiances and conflicts, such as the ongoing crisis in Rivers State where lawmakers have switched to the APC.
Overall, this development underscores the intense rivalry and high stakes in Nigerian politics as key players realign and prepare for the next electoral battle. The APC's public demand for N150 million from its former chairman not only raises questions about internal party finances but also signals a fierce political fight ahead, with the ADC emerging as a significant challenger in the opposition landscape.
