PDP Slams Oshiomhole for ‘Hypocrisy’ Over Distribution of Grinding Machines as Constituency Project

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has faulted former governor and current senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, for distributing grinding machines, motorbikes, sewing machines, and N100,000 cash to constituents as part of his empowerment initiative.

The criticism came from Segun Saiki, a former lawmaker and PDP leader in the state, who described Oshiomhole’s gesture as hypocritical. Saiki accused the senator of doing exactly what he once condemned, recalling that Oshiomhole had previously derided lawmakers who distributed similar items as constituency projects.

“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 kind of project is this after two years in the Senate? What can anyone do with N100,000 in today’s economy? He only gave money to those who visited him.”

Saiki reminded the public that before becoming a senator, Oshiomhole had criticised the culture of tokenistic empowerment, arguing that it impoverished citizens rather than creating lasting benefits.

In response, Oshiomhole’s media aide, Victor Oshioke, defended the initiative, insisting that the senator had also embarked on more sustainable projects, including the construction of classroom blocks and market stores across Edo North.

Oshioke explained that Oshiomhole’s distribution of items was only a part of broader development efforts. “What Oshiomhole meant was that a senator should not be judged by sharing items but by enduring legacies and jobs created,” he said, maintaining that the lawmaker’s actions were consistent with his commitment to long-term empowerment.

Before his election to the Senate, Oshiomhole had promised to reform the concept of constituency projects, saying, “I don’t want to go to the Senate for business as usual. 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. The government must refocus on long-term strategies to empower people.”