TD Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former governor of Edo State and a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has once again brought the state of federal roads in Delta and Edo under the spotlight.
Earlier, opposition leader Peter Obi raised concerns about the deplorable condition of the route, but his remarks were dismissed by some as “emotional.”
Instead of addressing the issue directly, Minister of Works David Umahi challenged Obi to a debate, sparking criticism.
Oshiomhole’s Senate Intervention
During a Senate session, Senator Oshiomhole blasted Umahi for neglecting critical infrastructure in the South-South.
He remarked: “Probably Delta and Edo State roads are not part of the renewed hope agenda of Mr. President.”
Oshiomhole accused Umahi of bias in project allocation, questioning why new road proposals are prioritized while existing federal routes remain impassable.
He stressed that maintenance of existing roads must come before new construction, especially on vital economic corridors.
Renewed Hope Agenda Under Scrutiny
President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda promised nationwide infrastructure renewal.
However, critics argue that the South-South region has been sidelined.
Citizens in Delta and Edo complain of worsening transport conditions, higher costs, and safety risks.
Oshiomhole’s intervention has amplified these concerns, giving them weight within the ruling party itself.
Political Implications and Why It Matters
- Intra-Party Tensions: Both Oshiomhole and Umahi belong to the APC, making the criticism more significant.
- Accountability Pressure: Umahi now faces scrutiny not only from opposition figures like Obi but also from senior APC leaders.
- Public Sentiment: Frustration is mounting as poor roads continue to undermine trade and daily life in the region.
- Economic Impact: Delta and Edo roads are crucial for oil, gas, and agricultural transport. Their poor state hampers productivity.
- Safety Concerns: Motorists face daily risks from potholes, erosion, and collapsed sections.
- Trust in Government: The clash raises questions about whether Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda is equitably implemented across Nigeria.
Analysis of the Accusation by Oshiomhole
This episode underscores a recurring theme in Nigerian governance: grand promises of new infrastructure overshadowing the urgent need to maintain existing assets.
Umahi’s preference for new projects may reflect political optics, but Oshiomhole’s intervention highlights the practical realities of citizens who rely on existing roads.
The debate also illustrates how intra-party accountability can be a powerful force, as criticism from within the APC carries weight.
Video Reference
The full exchange and Oshiomhole’s remarks can be viewed in the Senate session clip: YouTube Video.
In short, Oshiomhole’s rebuke of Minister Umahi has amplified calls for urgent repairs to Delta and Edo roads, aligning with earlier warnings from Peter Obi.
The controversy now places the Minister of Works under pressure to demonstrate fairness and prioritize maintenance, testing the credibility of Tinubu’s infrastructure agenda.
