Oshiomhole’s legacy sparks uproar as Minister Momoh defends political icons

DDM News

Nigeria’s Minister of Niger Delta Development, Abubakar Momoh of, delivered a charged political address that stirred strong reactions.

He reflected on his political journey, tracing his path from the PDP to his current ministerial role, Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports.

Momoh emphasized the value of grassroots political development in producing competent and visionary leaders for national transformation.

He challenged the belief that the labour movement avoided the 1999 elections, offering a different historical account.

The minister referenced the late Gani Fawehinmi as a prominent example of political activism during that period.

“Have you forgotten Gani Fawehinmi ran for president under the National Conscience Party in 1999?” Momoh asked.

He noted that some within the labour movement did not support Fawehinmi’s political ambitions at the time.

This, he said, highlights the complex dynamics surrounding political participation and leadership development in Nigeria.

He then spotlighted Comrade Adams Oshiomhole’s political rise as a model of purposeful leadership and strategic decision-making.

According to Momoh, Gani Fawehinmi once encouraged Oshiomhole to contest the presidency, which he respectfully declined.

“He believed he lacked the necessary backing to win, so he chose to run for governor instead,” Momoh stated.

He argued that Oshiomhole’s decision to govern Edo State first was a wise and impactful choice.

“There’s no one from Edo State who’ll deny the progress during Oshiomhole’s eight years as governor,” Momoh insisted.

He went further, comparing Oshiomhole’s achievements to those of the revered Professor Ambrose Alli.

Momoh claimed Oshiomhole was second only to Alli in terms of development brought to the state.

His statements triggered immediate backlash from the audience, who responded with chants of “It’s a lie.”

The uproar reflected deep divisions over Oshiomhole’s legacy and the politics of leadership in Edo State.

Still, Momoh held firm, urging critics to assess the former governor’s achievements objectively and fairly.

He argued that infrastructure, education, and welfare improved significantly under Oshiomhole’s leadership.

The minister’s comments reignited debate on how Nigeria measures political performance and leadership success.

Momoh concluded by emphasizing the need for active political participation to drive national development and reform.

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