Senator Adams Oshiomhole has publicly challenged Arise TV anchor and former presidential spokesperson, Dr. Reuben Abati, to a physical confrontation over comments he deemed “disrespectful” and “mischievous.” The altercation stems from a recent episode of Arise TV’s The Morning Show, where Abati questioned former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Abati asked Okowa whether he sought Oshiomhole’s permission before switching parties, implying that Oshiomhole had the authority to forgive political transgressions.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Oshiomhole expressed his displeasure, stating:“I was particularly shocked that a senior editor could ask the immediate past governor of Delta state, Okowa, mischievously, I must say, with all due respect, ‘Did you get permission from Oshiomhole that your sins will now be forgiven before you decided to decamp to APC?’”
He further questioned the implication of Abati’s remark, emphasizing his role in the legislature:
“How can you ask that? What is my status? I am in the legislature. Is the legislature responsible for the prosecution of anyone wrong in any way?”
Oshiomhole also criticized Abati for allegedly harboring political resentment from his failed bid to become deputy governor in the 2019 Ogun State gubernatorial election. He accused Abati of using his media platform to express these frustrations and challenged him to confront him directly:
“If you are angry because you wanted to be a deputy governor and you lost an election in Ogun state, is that the reason you are paranoid, that every opportunity you want to abuse me? If you want to abuse me, don’t hide behind the TV; let’s meet in the street and fight it out.”
Additionally, Oshiomhole referenced Abati’s past, including his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after serving as President Goodluck Jonathan’s spokesperson. He also expressed disappointment over Abati’s failure to acknowledge his contributions to labor movements, particularly during May Day commemorations.
