By Odion Esele
In the current political landscape of Edo State, few figures are as controversial as Jarret Tenebe. As the chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo, his ascent to power is marred by a troubling past involving allegations of large-scale crude oil theft, pipeline vandalization, forgery, and corruption. To this day, Tenebe remains heavily involved in oil bunkering and vandalization, using the same thugs in Edo State to help carry out his illegal activities in the Niger Delta.
Tenebe’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC raised eyebrows, as many believe his move was a calculated attempt to shield himself from scrutiny over his criminal record. His involvement in violent post-election events only reinforces concerns that such a figure should not hold public office. Worse still, he is among those sabotaging Nigeria’s economy through large-scale oil theft, depriving the country of vital revenue.
Tenebe’s criminal activities first came to light in 2017, when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned him before the Federal Capital Territory High Court on charges of forgery. Alongside his company, Fenix Impex Nigeria Limited, Tenebe was accused of fraudulently forging a letter from the State House in 2010. The letter, allegedly signed by Chief Mike A. Oghiadomhe, former Chief of Staff to the President, sought approval for a one-year retainership service for evacuating seized crude oil. This forged document was presented to the Minister of Defence to legitimize the illegal sale of crude oil.
Despite the severity of these charges, which included forgery with intent to defraud—an offence punishable under Section 364 of the Penal Code—Tenebe pleaded not guilty. His legal team quickly sought bail, citing his poor health, and the court ordered his remand in prison pending the hearing. This forgery case was just the tip of the iceberg, as Tenebe’s criminal operations had been ongoing for years.
Tenebe has long been implicated in a vast network of crude oil theft, smuggling stolen oil from Nigeria to Ghana under the guise of legitimate business. His company, Fenix Impex, was linked to vessels transporting stolen oil to Ghana’s Saltpond platform, with investigations uncovering the involvement of high-ranking Nigerian politicians. US authorities were instrumental in unravelling this scheme, which involved key Nigerian officials who profited from the illegal sale of crude oil.
Over time, Tenebe’s political connections have provided him with a protective shield, allowing him to operate with impunity. Reports suggest that his patrons include a former Chief of Staff to the President, a former Petroleum Minister, and a former PDP Board of Trustees chair. These powerful figures reportedly helped him avoid prosecution, enabling his continued involvement in oil theft and other criminal activities.
In one brazen act, Tenebe and an associate were caught trying to bribe Brigadier General Azinta, the Nigerian Army commander in Benin, with $65,000. The bribe was meant to secure their release after being arrested for possessing fraudulent crude oil evacuation contracts. Even then, Tenebe’s political allies ensured he was not prosecuted.
As APC chairman in Edo, Tenebe’s influence has grown, but his notorious reputation remains intact. The same thugs he uses to vandalize oil pipelines and steal crude oil are the ones fueling political violence in Edo State. His use of violence and intimidation, particularly after the Edo governorship election, has further tarnished his image.
Tenebe’s continued involvement in oil bunkering is a national concern. Oil theft and vandalization not only sabotage the Nigerian economy but also undermine the government’s fight against corruption. If President Bola Tinubu is truly committed to fighting corruption, he must bring individuals like Jarret Tenebe to justice. Allowing Tenebe and his likes to continue operating with impunity sends a dangerous message that corruption and economic sabotage are acceptable under Nigeria’s political system.
In conclusion, Jarret Tenebe’s troubling past and present activities reinforce the urgent need for accountability and reform in Nigeria’s political and economic systems. The country deserves leaders who prioritize the public good over personal gain, and it’s time to ensure that figures like Tenebe face the full weight of the law for their actions.
Esele, a public affairs commentator, writes from Benin City.