Senate President Godswill Akpabio recently made headlines during a Senate debate by criticizing former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole. Akpabio pointed out that Oshiomhole’s political protégé, Godwin Obaseki, has turned against him after Oshiomhole played a key role in getting him elected as governor.
Akpabio openly stated on the Senate floor, “The man you brought in as governor has turned against you and against democracy.” This comment highlights the deepening rift in Edo State politics and raises questions about loyalty and political alliances. Akpabio’s remarks suggest that he believes Obaseki’s actions are not only a personal betrayal of Oshiomhole but also a disservice to democratic principles.
In response, Oshiomhole clarified that while he supported Obaseki’s candidacy in 2016, he did not directly bring him into power. “Just for the record, I didn’t bring him in; he was elected, but I supported him, just the way you supported Governor Udom,” Oshiomhole stated. This statement emphasizes the distinction between support and direct involvement in a political campaign.
Oshiomhole played a crucial role in Obaseki’s rise to power. In 2016, he backed Obaseki against the wishes of APC leaders, who preferred Obaseki’s deputy, Pius Odubu, or another candidate. With Oshiomhole’s endorsement, Obaseki won the gubernatorial election, defeating Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the candidate from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
However, despite this early support, tensions began to mount between Obaseki and the APC leadership after he took office. Within two years, many party leaders grew dissatisfied with Obaseki, feeling excluded from his administration. This discontent reached Oshiomhole, who attempted to mediate the situation.
Oshiomhole’s efforts to reconcile with Obaseki ultimately failed. Obaseki made it clear that he would not be controlled by any political “godfather” and expressed his determination to lead independently. This declaration marked the beginning of a cold war between the former allies, significantly affecting the political landscape in Edo State.
Before the upcoming 2024 governorship election, Obaseki sought to patch things up with Oshiomhole to support his candidate, Asue Ighodalo. However, despite these attempts, Ighodalo lost the election, underscoring the continued rift between the former allies and the challenges faced by Obaseki’s administration.
The ongoing tensions between Akpabio, Oshiomhole, and Obaseki reflect the complexities of Nigerian politics, where alliances can shift dramatically. Akpabio’s mockery of Oshiomhole highlights the fractures within the APC and raises questions about future political dynamics in Edo State. As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these relationships will impact the upcoming elections and governance in the region.
