Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has criticised the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, accusing him of failing to articulate alternative policy proposals to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 general election.
Oshiomhole made the comments while appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday.
He questioned Obi’s preparedness to govern, arguing that his approach to leadership reflected the short-term interests of a trader rather than the long-term vision expected of a statesman.
“Peter Obi has not offered any alternative. I think it is you or someone else who asked him for security, what will you do differently? He said, it’s in his heart.
“I’ve always said that Peter Obi is a trader; the logic of a trader is short term turnover. A statesman that Tinubu represents thinks of the next generation,” he said.
The former Edo State governor acknowledged the constitutional right of opposition figures to seek the presidency but insisted that Tinubu should be given another opportunity to lead the country, particularly after navigating the difficulties associated with the early phase of his administration.
He argued that replacing the incumbent with another candidate at this stage would amount to bringing in an inexperienced alternative instead of allowing the current administration to consolidate its policies.
“I think this government is doing well. If a man who was on ₦70,000 now is given ₦70,000 addition that makes it ₦140,000 for him it’s a hundred percent increase and if you know what ₦10,000 means for the real masses, you’ll appreciate that Tinubu has shown that he cares,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has approved a monthly transport support payment of ₦70,000 for workers across various levels for six months, commencing in November 2026. The decision followed discussions with the Nigeria Labour Congress on October 27.
The agreement also includes arrangements for the settlement of outstanding peculiar allowances, which are expected to be disbursed in three equal monthly payments beginning in November.
However, the Trade Union Congress has opposed the transport intervention, maintaining that workers require a sustainable improvement in their salaries rather than temporary financial assistance.
