From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, has refuted claims that he said defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC) forgives one’s sins.
Speaking at the 28th Founders’ Day Lecture of Independent Television and Radio in Benin, themed “Nigeria, Where Are We Going?”, Oshiomhole clarified a 2019 statement made during an APC rally.
He explained that he was addressing a former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member, Iluobe, whose surname means “I do no wrong” in Edo. “I was only telling him to maintain his surname now that he joined APC,” Oshiomhole said, denying that he implied sins are forgiven upon defection. He noted that the comment was misconstrued and widely misrepresented.
Oshiomhole criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for condemning defectors like former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and his successor, Sheriff Oborevwori, who joined APC. As Senate Committee on Interior Chairman, he argued that Atiku, known for frequent party switches, lacks the moral authority to judge others. “When it suits him, he doesn’t complain, but when it doesn’t, it’s an issue,” he said.
He praised President Bola Tinubu for not coercing opposition members to join APC, attributing defections to Tinubu’s charismatic leadership.
Representing Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, Commissioner for Information Paul Ohonbamu assured Independent Television and Radio of strong collaboration, noting the state’s focus on road infrastructure to improve residents’ lives.