Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor of Edo State and serving Senator for Edo North, has claimed that security conditions in Edo during his tenure were more stable than those recorded in Anambra State under ex-Governor Peter Obi.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) figure also took aim at leading opposition voices, including Peter Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, accusing them of repeatedly criticising President Bola Tinubu’s security performance without presenting clear or workable strategies to tackle the problem.
Oshiomhole made these remarks during an interview on the Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, where he discussed past governance experiences and national security concerns across different administrations.
He argued that insecurity in Nigeria began to escalate during Atiku Abubakar’s time as Vice President, while also insisting that Peter Obi’s administration in Anambra State struggled significantly with managing security challenges within the region.
The senator pointed specifically to the Bakassi Boys, a vigilante outfit that operated in parts of Anambra, alleging that the group became difficult to regulate during Obi’s period in office.
According to him, the inability of the government at the time to fully rein in the activities of the group contributed to worsening disorder and rising criminal incidents in the state.
He further maintained that Obi’s handling of security matters was inadequate, suggesting that the situation became so severe that later administrations had to take stronger corrective steps.
Oshiomhole referenced the actions of Obi’s successor, Governor Willie Obiano, who reportedly ordered the demolition of properties believed to be connected to kidnapping operations and other criminal activities.
He described these interventions as necessary responses to a situation that, in his view, had already deteriorated before Obiano assumed office.
The former governor also painted a picture of the level of insecurity during that era, citing extreme cases of abduction involving family members as evidence of widespread breakdown in law enforcement.
He used these examples to challenge perceptions about Peter Obi’s performance on security, arguing that such records should be scrutinised when assessing suitability for higher national office.
Oshiomhole further dismissed repeated opposition slogans, particularly the phrase “do the right thing,” describing them as lacking substance and practical direction.
He insisted that political leaders must move beyond general statements and instead provide specific, actionable policies capable of addressing Nigeria’s security and governance challenges.
According to him, effective leadership is demonstrated through clear solutions rather than rhetorical expressions or broad criticisms.
On electoral matters, Oshiomhole expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu would secure victory in the 2027 presidential election, asserting that opposition candidates would not improve on their previous electoral performances.
He specifically stated that Peter Obi would not surpass his vote tally from the 2023 polls.
Oshiomhole, who governed Edo State between 2008 and 2016, concluded that governance should be evaluated based on measurable outcomes rather than political messaging or campaign rhetoric.
