Oshiomhole Bashes Obaseki Over Shocking Arrest Order

Former Governor of Edo State and ex-National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, has spoken out against his successor, Godwin Obaseki, for allegedly calling for his arrest over the protests that erupted in the state last week due to the new naira notes controversy.

In an interview with journalists in Benin City on Saturday, Oshiomhole criticised Obaseki for abusing his power and attempting to order the police to arrest him, stating that such actions were the reason why people had reservations about state police. He said, “The law is very clear. If a crime has been committed, it is up to the security agencies to investigate and if they find the need to invite people for questioning, they will definitely do so.”

Oshiomhole also accused Obaseki of being a victim of his own double standards, saying that he had been inconsistent in his positions on issues. He criticised Obaseki’s earlier statements where he accused the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, of printing billions of naira to share among states and warned that it would destroy the naira. However, Obaseki had later defended the CBN Governor and his policies. Oshiomhole said, “He has made the wrong assumption that Edo people do not know their right from their left.”

Regarding the controversy surrounding the new naira notes, Oshiomhole stated that he had always denounced the challenges that people were facing, adding that such challenges were not the policy of the APC. He also challenged Obaseki to provide proof to back up his allegations. He said, “It is not wrong for Obaseki, with all due respect to his very high office, to throw allegations without attempting to show any proof.”

Oshiomhole’s criticism of Obaseki’s actions is significant given their political history and current rivalry. The two politicians were once allies, but their relationship turned sour, leading to Obaseki’s defection from the APC to the opposition People’s Democratic Party in 2020. Obaseki’s recent call for Oshiomhole’s arrest has further fuelled tensions between the two men.

In conclusion, Oshiomhole’s comments on Obaseki’s actions demonstrate his commitment to the rule of law and his concern about the abuse of power by politicians. His criticism of his successor’s inconsistent positions on issues and the new naira notes controversy highlight the challenges facing Nigerian politics, particularly regarding the conduct of elected officials.