Oshiomhole’s Empowerment Backlash: ‘A Dog Returning to Its Vomit
By DADA AYOKHAI
Critics have described the recent empowerment program organized by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North senatorial district and former Governor, as a case of “a dog returning to its vomit.”
The program which saw the distribution of items such as sewing and grinding machines was met with skepticism.
Comrade Adams Oshiomhole had publicly criticized the practice of distributing “empowerment” items such as sewing machines, grinding machines and motorcycles as constituency projects.
In a widely reported interview, he vowed to “refocus the long-term strategy to empower the people” and condemned lawmakers who handed out such items as “tokenism” that does little to create lasting impact.
Unfortunately, after two years in office Oshiomhole organized an empowerment programme where he distributed motorcycles, grinding machines, sewing machines and ₦100,000 cash gifts in his hometown of Iyamho, Edo North.
The event sparked immediate backlash from political opponents and civil society, who accused him of contradicting his prior stance.
Former Edo State lawmaker Segun Saiki (PDP) condemned the move, likening it to “someone vomiting and swallowing it back,” questioning the value of ₦100,000 in today’s economy and accusing Oshiomhole of only rewarding supporters who attended the event.
Critics also brand Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s recent moves as “desperate” bids for a second term in office.
A former national assembly member, Hon Abass Braimoh who also an aide, staged a public endorsement of Oshiomhole for2027, prompting online mockery that likened the senator to a “dog eating its vomit.”
Oshiomhole also faces backlash for diverting attention from the deplorable state of federal roads in Edo North. The Benin-Auchi highway, a critical artery, remains in disrepair, with motorists enduring “crater-like gullies” and extended travel times.
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