Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, has launched a scathing attack on Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), asserting that Obi cannot become president of Nigeria. Speaking on TVC, Oshiomhole described Obi as a trader focused on short-term gains, contrasting him with manufacturers and investors.
Oshiomhole Criticizes Obi's Political Trajectory
Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State, highlighted contradictions in Obi's political allegiance. He noted that Obi had pledged never to abandon the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) out of respect for the late Odumegwu Ojukwu, yet quickly allied with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar after his tenure ended. "Before daybreak, once his tenure ended, Obi became a political wanderer," Oshiomhole stated.
The senator argued that Obi's short-term mindset disqualifies him from the presidency. "Peter Obi is a trader. Traders have short-term calculations, they are not into long-term projections. They are not wired to think about what the situation will be in the long run. Their turnover is within 3 months, maximum of 6 months," Oshiomhole said.
Traders vs Manufacturers: Leadership Debate
Oshiomhole insisted that a leader with a manufacturing background is better suited for Nigeria. "It is a manufacturer, an investor, an entrepreneur that understands how you can start a project, sweating for two to three years to build a factory, and then import machinery to install before you start producing," he explained. He accused Obi of lacking awareness of Nigeria's economic struggles due to his trading focus.
Specifically, Oshiomhole asserted, "Nigeria was virtually grounded. Peter Obi is not aware because he’s busy trading. I have said to people that Peter Obi’s business is to export job and import unemployment to the country. That is what he lives for. He’s a trader. He owns a shopping mall."
Obi's Record as Governor
Peter Obi served as governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014, completing two terms. During his tenure, he was noted for fiscal prudence and accumulation of substantial savings for the state. However, Oshiomhole dismissed these achievements, suggesting that a governor's role differs from that of a president. The senator's remarks come ahead of the 2027 general elections, where Obi is expected to contest again.
Since the 2023 election, Obi has gained widespread support among young Nigerians, particularly through social media. However, Oshiomhole's criticism reflects ongoing skepticism among some political veterans about Obi's readiness for the presidency. The debate intensifies as Nigeria faces economic challenges requiring long-term industrial policies rather than short-term trade.
Political Reactions
Political analysts note that Oshiomhole's comments are part of broader efforts by established political figures to shape public opinion. With the 2027 elections drawing nearer, such exchanges are likely to increase. Obi has not yet responded to Oshiomhole's latest attack.
