AK-47 remark was figure of speech, not call to violence – Tenebe

Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Edo State, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, has clarified that his controversial AK-47 remark was a figure of speech, not a call to violence.

Tenebe said the expression was a metaphor for electoral strength, firmness and resilience.

He said it was meant to underscore the need for voters to stand firmly by their democratic choice and protect their votes.

The APC chairman explained that just as AK-47 is reputed for strength and reliability, citizens must show same resolve in defending their mandate.

He stressed that the comment was never intended to introduce firearms or violence into Edo’s electoral discourse.

According to him, the strength invoked was strength of conviction, not strength of arms.

He described defending the vote as a civic responsibility anchored on vigilance, transparency and accountability.

Tenebe noted that political symbolism often uses familiar objects to convey ideas of durability and determination, and his analogy fell within that context.

He said such firmness must be expressed through peaceful participation, lawful observation and legitimate democratic channels.

He said the message was about being steadfast in political choice, not about wielding weapons.

“The essence is resilience without violence and firmness without lawlessness,” he said.

He urged the electorate to understand the remark as a call to value their votes and stand responsibly behind lawful choices.