SENATOR Adams Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North in the National Assembly, has issued a bold challenge to Arise TV anchor and former presidential spokesperson, Dr. Reuben Abati, following what he described as disrespectful and mischievous remarks made on national television.
Speaking during an interview, Oshiomhole responded saying, he was surprised as to why Abati questioned former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“I was shocked that a senior journalist would ask Okowa if he sought my permission before switching parties, as though I possess the authority to forgive political sins,” Oshiomhole said.
The former Nigeria Labour Congress president and ex-governor of Edo State said the insinuation was both misleading and absurd.
“I’m a legislator, not a prosecutor. How does my position give me such powers?” he asked rhetorically.
Though Oshiomhole avoided naming Abati directly, his comments were laced with unmistakable references to the broadcaster’s background and political history.
He further accused Abati of hypocrisy, referencing his past encounter with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after serving as President Goodluck Jonathan’s spokesman.
“The same man once faced EFCC questioning. Did I give him permission to leave PDP?” Oshiomhole quipped.
He also expressed frustration over Abati’s alleged refusal to acknowledge his contributions to Nigeria’s labour movement.
“Even on May Day, he couldn’t credit me for leading protests and picketing as NLC President. Yet, this is the same man who once wrote a piece calling me ‘the people’s president,’” he said.
Oshiomhole then issued a direct challenge to Abati:
“If you’re upset over your failed bid to be deputy governor in Ogun State, don’t take it out on me. If you’ve got something to say, don’t hide behind a TV screen—let’s meet on the street and settle it.”
Abati had contested as running mate to the late Buruji Kashamu in the 2019 Ogun State governorship election under the PDP but lost to APC’s Dapo Abiodun.
