Edo North Senator says political missteps are temporary and part of the democratic process, urges party unity at APC state congress.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North in the National Assembly, has stirred fresh debate after declaring that “political sins” cannot condemn any Nigerian politician to hell.

The former Edo State governor made the remark on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, while speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Congress in Benin City. His comments came in response to an appeal for forgiveness by the newly elected APC State Chairman, Jarret Tenebe.

Addressing party faithful, Oshiomhole dismissed the weight of political mistakes, describing them as inevitable and often fleeting in the rough-and-tumble world of politics.

“Jarret said all the sins he has committed should be forgiven,” Oshiomhole told the gathering. “I said he who does not sin does not belong to this planet Earth. Political sin cannot lead anybody to hell.”

He emphasized that political disagreements and missteps are part of democratic engagement and should not be treated as permanent stains. According to him, such “sins” often arise in heated moments but eventually fade with time and reconciliation.

“Political sins can grow around a moment and then just dissolve,” he added, urging party members to embrace unity and move forward. In a show of confidence in the new leadership, Oshiomhole described Tenebe as “brand new,” likening him to freshness without staleness.

The senator’s remarks have since generated conversations within political circles, with supporters interpreting them as a call for tolerance and reconciliation, while critics argue that accountability in public office should not be downplayed.