As a ex-governor, former National Chairman of the ruling party, and sitting senator whose rise in politics was built on his dramatic tenure as Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Adams Oshiomhole fits the bill as an elder-statesman. However, the combative politician appears to be stepping down from that distinguished role to serve effectively as the elder-spokesman for Senator Monday Okpebholo, the mute candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Edo governorship race.
He resumed duties yesterday on ARISE TV, arguing frantically for the election of a candidate without a manifesto, who cannot speak, and has no known professional work experience outside being a computer supplier. In the process, he cast aspersions on his main opponent, Asue Ighodalo, demanding an investigation into how much he allegedly made as a consultant to the Edo State government. Like a typical politician, he brought no evidence forward to support the slander.
That notwithstanding, the investigation of public officers, current and aspiring, is good and consistent with the ideals of democracy. As such, Oshiomhole must now subject himself to the same demand and answer the calls from protesting Nigerians about the value of his representation at the Senate, considering that it costs the nation so much to keep him there.
Is Oshiomhole deserving of full-time compensation as a Senator if the job is so cushy that he has enough time to assume another role as elder-spokesman to a puppet candidate who was selected and imposed on the party to carry out instructions dictated to him, and to which he has committed in advance? What does this say about the cost of governance and the productive utilization of the country’s resources?
The same goes for the candidate Oshiomhole has tossed on his back and firmly held with a wrapper. Okpebholo is a colleague of Oshiomhole at the Senate. There too, the Akpako man, as he is otherwise called, says nothing, contributes nothing, and merely occupies space in the chambers. He is a failure in all respects and, instead of showing contrition and seeking help, he seeks a promotion. No institution functions like this, not even an adult school, as Okpebholo would know, given his rumored recent enrollment in one.
It is understandable that Oshiomhole has attached his ego to this election. He desperately seeks to get one over Obaseki, who nearly saw to his retirement from politics. He is reeling, consumed by vengeance, and eager to re-establish himself as the ‘mover and shaker’ of Edo’s politics. But as an elder, he must understand that time and season happen to all. The leadership of Edo State is too important to settle old scores with, and the era of one man determining the direction of a state is long gone.
The elder-spokesman should step aside and let the people lead.