Adams Oshiomhole’s Political Career by Lawson Akhigbe

Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole (born April 4, 1952, in Iyamho, Edo State) is a prominent politician whose career spans labour activism and high-level elective and party positions. Known for his outspoken style and grassroots appeal, he transitioned from trade union leadership to becoming a key figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Labour Leadership (1970s–2000s)

Oshiomhole began as a textile worker and rose rapidly in trade unions. He served as President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) from 1999 to 2007, leading nationwide strikes against fuel price hikes and advocating for workers’ rights. His confrontational approach against governments, including arrests and clashes, earned him national prominence as a defender of the working class.

The Governor of Edo State (2008–2016)

Oshiomhole entered politics under the Action Congress (later ACN). He contested the 2007 Edo governorship election; initially declared lost, a tribunal nullified the result in 2008, declaring him the winner. He served two terms (2008–2016), focusing on infrastructure (roads, schools, hospitals), urban renewal in Benin City, and education reforms. Re-elected in 2012 with a landslide, his tenure is praised for transforming Edo but criticized for authoritarian tendencies.

APC National Chairman (2018–2020)

After handing over to successor Godwin Obaseki (whom he later fell out with bitterly), Oshiomhole was elected APC National Chairman in June 2018. His tenure was turbulent: internal crises, including the Edo APC factional fights leading to Obaseki’s defection.In 2019–2020, he faced suspension by Edo APC wards, no-confidence votes, and court rulings. A high court suspended him in March 2020; appeals briefly reinstated him, but the Court of Appeal upheld the suspension in June 2020, ending his chairmanship amid accusations of authoritarianism.

Senator for Edo North (2023–Present)

Oshiomhole returned to elective politics, winning the APC primary in 2022 and the February 2023 senatorial election with 107,110 votes. Sworn in for the 10th Senate, he chairs the Committee on Interior. He remains vocal on national issues, including economic reforms, electoral violence, and probes into past administrations (e.g., urging investigation of Obaseki in 2025). Recent activities include clashes in Senate screenings (e.g., over Reno Omokri’s nomination in December 2025), criticizing bill-passing processes, and constituency projects (e.g., empowerment programs with cash and items, drawing hypocrisy accusations). As of December 2025, Oshiomhole continues influencing Edo and national APC politics, often described as a resilient “godfather” figure despite setbacks. His career reflects a shift from labour radicalism to establishment politics, marked by achievements in governance and enduring rivalries.