Asue Ighodalo Responds to Oshiomhole’s Criticisms: A Tailor’s Perspective vs. Board Chairman’s Experience
Host: You’ve heard the former Edo State governor, Adams Oshiomhole, whom you advised on his economic team, criticize you, saying, “Asue Ighodalo is not electable, doesn’t understand the people, and can’t speak the language of his own village.” What’s your response?
Ighodalo: I respect Comrade Oshiomhole due to his age and past connections to my village. However, the criticisms he’s made are unfounded. He knows these remarks are inaccurate, and I choose to respect him despite his comments.
Let me ask you this: I served on his economic team for eight years. If I lacked the capability, how could I have contributed to his team for so long?
Host: Being on an economic team is different from governing people.
Ighodalo: Exactly. Just because Oshiomhole started as a tailor doesn’t mean he couldn’t become governor. His background didn’t hinder him. Similarly, my extensive experience as a board chairman, running companies and employing thousands, should be considered. It’s not for Oshiomhole to judge my electability; that decision rests with the people of Edo State, whom I engage with regularly.
I’ve visited all the wards multiple times, unlike Oshiomhole before he became governor. When candidates can’t provide concrete plans, they resort to criticism.
Host: Do you understand the local language?
Ighodalo: Understanding the language isn’t the only way to lead. I comprehend enough to communicate effectively. In my village, I’m well-versed in local matters. Leadership isn’t solely about language. For instance, Ambrose Alli, celebrated as a great governor, didn’t speak the local language but was still effective in his role.
Host: You’ve heard the former Edo State governor, Adams Oshiomhole, whom you advised on his economic team, criticize you, saying, “Asue Ighodalo is not electable, doesn’t understand the people, and can’t speak the language of his own village.” What’s your response?
Ighodalo: I respect Comrade Oshiomhole due to his age and past connections to my village. However, the criticisms he’s made are unfounded. He knows these remarks are inaccurate, and I choose to respect him despite his comments.
Let me ask you this: I served on his economic team for eight years. If I lacked the capability, how could I have contributed to his team for so long?
Host: Being on an economic team is different from governing people.
Ighodalo: Exactly. Just because Oshiomhole started as a tailor doesn’t mean he couldn’t become governor. His background didn’t hinder him. Similarly, my extensive experience as a board chairman, running companies and employing thousands, should be considered. It’s not for Oshiomhole to judge my electability; that decision rests with the people of Edo State, whom I engage with regularly.
I’ve visited all the wards multiple times, unlike Oshiomhole before he became governor. When candidates can’t provide concrete plans, they resort to criticism.
Host: Do you understand the local language?
Ighodalo: Understanding the language isn’t the only way to lead. I comprehend enough to communicate effectively. In my village, I’m well-versed in local matters. Leadership isn’t solely about language. For instance, Ambrose Alli, celebrated as a great governor, didn’t speak the local language but was still effective in his role.
