Former Governor of Edo State, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has faced backlash over his statement that Betsy Obaseki, wife of Edo Governor Godwin Obaseki, “has no child.”

The controversy erupted following a campaign event in Ubiaja, where the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) launched its governorship campaign for Esan South-East Local Government Area (LGA).

During the event, Betsy Obaseki highlighted the family aspect of PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo, introducing Ighodalo’s wife, Ifeyinwa. She urged women to support Ighodalo, noting that he was the only candidate in the September 21 election with a wife, suggesting that this reflected better on women’s empowerment.

Responding, however, in an interview, Oshiomhole accused Betsy Obaseki of making a false claim that All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Monday Okpebholo had no wife. He then controversially remarked that the Obasekis, who are in their sixties, are childless and have not adopted any children.

He said, “I was shocked to hear Mrs. Obaseki say our candidate has no wife. She and her husband are childless and have not adopted. I don’t blame anyone who does not have children, but those who care about children should adopt from motherless homes.”

Oshiomhole contrasted this with Okpebholo’s family, noting that his children are well-educated and actively involved in the campaign.

Oshiomhole’s remarks have sparked widespread criticism on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter).

@TheoAbuAgada condemned the senator’s comments, questioning how low he could go. @gladys_onyetem criticised Oshiomhole for reinforcing negative perceptions of the APC, while @Uniquebabatunde called for Oshiomhole’s removal from the Senate, labelling his statements as demoralising. (Daily Trust)

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