Oshiomhole Critiques Obaseki’s Administration, Praises Okpebholo’s Achievements

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North District, has criticised the immediate past administration in Edo State, describing its initiatives as largely symbolic with little tangible impact. Highlighting failed projects such as the Gelegele Port and abandoned housing schemes, Oshiomhole questioned the effectiveness of the EdoBEST education programme, calling it “deceptive” as many schools reportedly lack electricity and Wi-Fi to support digital monitoring.

He also accused the previous government of neglecting public schools and reducing the number of teachers. Addressing the media, Oshiomhole urged journalists to focus on the living rather than relying on “political ancestors” from the opposition PDP, stating: “I answer questions from the living, not the dead… If you must ask me a question, I also have the right to ask a counter-question: What did the PDP accomplish in their first year?”

Oshiomhole contrasted the past administration with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s first-year performance. He praised Okpebholo for delivering tangible projects despite inheriting an eight-year-neglected state. He cited the Ramat Park flyover as a key intervention aimed at reducing traffic congestion and boosting economic activity in Benin City.

The senator also lauded the rehabilitation of long-neglected schools and the revival of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, which now receives a monthly subvention of N500 million, resolving longstanding academic disruptions.

On the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), Oshiomhole, who chairs the committee reviewing its legal and operational status, expressed confidence in Okpebholo’s leadership. He assured that the committee would clarify the roles of the Benin Royal Palace and Traditional Institution, determine the project’s correct designation, MOWAA or EMOWAA, and provide guidance on next steps.
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