Senator Adams Oshiomhole has publicly criticized former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, reigniting memories of a past political feud. The incident occurred at the 50th birthday celebration of Hadiza Bala Usman, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination.
A Birthday Speech Laced With Political Barbs
The event, held recently, became a platform for Oshiomhole to recall the turbulent period when Hadiza Bala Usman served as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority. The NPA was under the supervision of Amaechi's ministry during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, did not mention Amaechi by name but left little doubt about his target.
In his address, Oshiomhole made pointed remarks about individuals who attempted to undermine Usman. "When you were appointed as MD of the Nigerian Ports Authority, some people with 'bad belle' who were drunk with power tried to rubbish you without knowing your background, and you fought back," he stated. He further claimed these powerful figures tried to tarnish her family's name but are now facing hardship.
"May The Hunger Remain": Oshiomhole's Controversial Prayer
The senator's comments took a more severe turn as he wished continued suffering on those he accused. "They tried to rubbish your family's name, but right now, they're hungry. That hunger, even as they had a pot belly," Oshiomhole said. He concluded with a sharp jab: "The day I heard that those who were so powerful yesterday are now hungry, I said, may the hunger remain till they return to their creator."
This public dig is rooted in the well-documented conflict between Amaechi and Usman during her tenure at the NPA. The former minister had actively pressured for her removal from the position, leading to a major controversy within the Buhari government.
Mixed Reactions Trail Oshiomhole's Comments
Following the circulation of the video from the event, Nigerians have expressed diverse opinions on social media, highlighting the divisive nature of the statement.
Some users criticized Oshiomhole for historical revisionism. One commenter, Obeleye krukrubo, noted: "Oshiomhole, in the quest to please HBU, forgot that without the benevolence of that hungry man, she would never have been MD of NPA in the Buhari Administration." This suggests Amaechi played a role in her initial appointment.
Others found humor in the situation, like Wealth231, who linked the comment to broader political dynamics. Meanwhile, some condemned the tone of the discourse. Nkemakonam Ofong stated, "This is how petty and low those who claim to be leaders go to show they are on top," criticizing the level of political exchange.
Further criticism was directed at Oshiomhole personally. A user named De Boss referenced a past controversial statement by the former Edo governor: "Is this one not the same man who was a governor who tells a widow to go and die?" Another, Amahma, mocked his delivery style: "Why does he move his hands while saying rubbish?"
The incident underscores the lingering tensions within the political landscape, often surfacing at social gatherings. As the 2027 general elections draw closer, such public spats between prominent figures are likely to be scrutinized for their implications on alliances and political narratives.
