Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, has responded to remarks made by the Edo Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who criticised the candidate supported by Oshiomhole, referring to him as a “panel beater.”
Speaking in a video posted by TVC News on their YouTube channel from 36:21, Oshiomhole took offence to the comment, interpreting it as an attempt to demean and belittle their candidate.
Oshiomhole argued that Ighodalo’s statement reveals a lack of respect for the value of hard work and the potential of individuals who rise from humble beginnings.
He pointed out that many successful leaders globally have started their careers in modest professions, using this to defend their candidate’s background.
Oshiomhole emphasised that being a “panel beater” is not a negative mark but rather a testament to the candidate’s hard-working nature and connection with the common people.
Drawing a comparison, Oshiomhole cited the example of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the former President of Brazil.
He said that Lula began his career as a metalworker and union leader before rising to the presidency of Brazil.
Oshiomhole used this example to illustrate that great leaders can emerge from any background and that such experiences often make them more empathetic and connected to the people they serve.
In his criticism, Oshiomhole accused Ighodalo of being out of touch with the realities of ordinary Nigerians, claiming that the PDP candidate is overly focused on “boardroom affairs” and disconnected from the everyday struggles of the working class.
He argued that Ighodalo’s remark reflects a broader disconnect between the political elite and the masses, where success is often only recognised if it comes from affluent or high-status professions.
Oshiomhole further stated that the candidate he supports understands the challenges faced by the common people because of his own background and experiences.
He framed this as a significant advantage in governance, suggesting that a leader with such a background is more likely to implement policies that genuinely benefit the populace.
Oshiomhole said, “Asue Ighodalo said a whole former governor that I’m promoting a panel beater.
“Can you see the insult they want to wreck on our candidate?
“Although he claimed to be educated but he’s not well learned enough to know certain things about the little beginnings of leaders in the world.
“He should Google who is the President of Brazil today. President Lula was a panel beater and he rose to become the President of National Union of Metal Workers in Brazil.”….Show – More