A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Shegun Saiki, has criticized Senator Adams Oshiomhole over his recent distribution of motorcycles, grinding machines, sewing machines, and cash gifts to some constituents in Edo North Senatorial District.
Saiki, a former member of the Edo State House of Assembly, described the gesture as “a return to old habits,” questioning the motive and sustainability of such empowerment schemes.
In a statement on Monday, Saiki said, “It is like somebody vomiting and swallowing it back.
Which constituency project is he doing after two years in the Senate? What can anybody buy with ₦100,000 in this present economy? Oshiomhole only gave money to people that visited him.”
He recalled that Oshiomhole, prior to his election to the National Assembly, had promised to restructure how constituency projects are executed, urging him to focus on more impactful and long-term initiatives.
Saiki further faulted the idea of empowering young people with motorcycles and grinding machines, arguing that such projects do not create lasting value.
“That is even more offensive. How are you empowering a young man in his 20s with a motorbike? You are destroying him. The government must refocus its long-term strategy to truly empower the people,” he stated.
However, Oshiomhole’s Chief of Staff, Victor Oshioke, defended the senator’s record, insisting that his principal had also constructed classroom blocks, market stores, and other infrastructure across the district.
“Oshiomhole believes that a senator should not be judged merely by sharing items but by enduring legacies and jobs created,” Oshioke clarified.
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