Senator Adams Oshiomhole has fired back at Dr. Reuben Abati, former presidential spokesperson and Arise TV anchor, over what he calls “disrespectful” and “mischievous” comments made about him on live television.
The controversy erupted after Abati questioned former Delta governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s defection to the APC, implying Oshiomhole’s approval was needed.
On Channels Television’s Politics Today, Oshiomhole expressed disbelief that Abati, a senior editor, would ask, “Did you get permission from Oshiomhole that your sins will now be forgiven before you decided to decamp to APC?”
Oshiomhole dismissed the notion that he holds such sway, clarifying his role as a legislator without prosecutorial powers. He also reminded viewers of Abati’s own checkered history, including his EFCC arrest post-Jonathan administration. “Was I the one who granted him bail to leave PDP?” he asked pointedly.
The senator also accused Abati of ignoring his labour activism legacy, despite previously calling him “the people’s president” during his NLC tenure. “Instead of crediting me, he disparages labour leaders who become governors,” Oshiomhole said.
He ended with a direct challenge: “If you want to abuse me, don’t hide behind the TV; let’s meet in the street and fight it out.” The jab also referenced Abati’s failed 2019 deputy governorship run in Ogun State, suggesting bitterness fuels his attacks.
