Akpabio taunts Oshiomhole, says Obaseki betrayed him

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has taunted Senator Adams Oshiomhole, stating that the outgoing Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has betrayed him.

Akpabio pointed out that Oshiomhole played a crucial role in Obaseki’s rise to the governorship, yet Obaseki has now turned against him.

Senate president Godswill Akpabio

Akpabio while speaking during a debate on the floor of the Senate said: “The man you brought in as governor (Obaseki) has turned against you and against democracy.”

Responding, Oshiomhole said: “Just for the record, I didn’t bring him in; he was elected, but I supported him, just the way you supported Governor Udom.”

Recall that Oshiomhole facilitated Obaseki’s rise to the governorship in 2016, despite the opposition and counsel of the All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders.

The APC leaders had opted for his then-deputy, Pius Odubu, or another politician as a successor.

With Oshiomhole’s support, Obaseki defeated Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who was the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Two years into Obaseki’s tenure, party leaders expressed dissatisfaction with Obaseki for not including them in his administration.

The issue got to Oshiomhole, whose peace effort failed as Obaseki vowed never to allow a godfather to dictate to him or blackmail him.

Obaseki’s declaration began the Cold War between the duo.

Prior to the 2024 governorship election, Obaseki reached out to Oshiomhole to reconcile for the sake of his candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who ultimately lost the election.