A former lawmaker and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Edo State, Segun Saiki, has criticised Senator Adams Oshiomhole for distributing grinding machines, motorbikes, sewing machines, and N100,000 cash as part of his constituency projects.
Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North Senatorial District, handed out the items during an event in his hometown, Iyamho, on Saturday. The gesture, however, drew sharp condemnation from Saiki, who accused the former Edo State governor of hypocrisy.
“Oshiomhole swallowed what he had vomited by doling out grinding machines, motorbikes, sewing machines and N100,000 as a constituency project,” Saiki said. “It’s like someone vomiting and swallowing it back. What can anybody buy with N100,000 in today’s economy?”
Saiki recalled that Oshiomhole had, in the past, harshly criticised lawmakers who carried out similar empowerment programmes, accusing them of offering short-term handouts instead of meaningful development.
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Before his election to the Senate, Oshiomhole had publicly opposed such projects, stating, “I have seen my senator give out grinding machines and motorbikes as empowerment. That is more offensive. How are you empowering a young man in his 20s with a motorbike? You are destroying him.”
Saiki questioned the senator’s impact since assuming office two years ago, claiming the recent distribution lacked long-term value and benefitted only those in Oshiomhole’s immediate circle.
In defence of the senator, his media aide, Victor Oshioke, argued that the distribution of items was only one part of a broader developmental agenda. According to Oshioke, Senator Oshiomhole has also executed capital projects including classroom blocks and market stalls across the district.
He clarified that Oshiomhole’s intention was not to abandon his promise of sustainable development, but to balance immediate community needs with longer-term infrastructure goals.
“What Oshiomhole meant was that a senator should not be judged by sharing items but by enduring legacies and jobs created,” Oshioke explained.
