Adams Oshiomhole

Early Life and Background

Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole was born on April 4, 1952, in Iyamho, a community located in the Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Born into a devout Muslim family, he later converted to Christianity, adopting the name Adams. His early life was marked by humble beginnings, which instilled in him a strong work ethic and an understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians. He began his professional career as a textile worker, gaining employment at Arewa Textiles in Kaduna. It was during this period that his innate leadership qualities and passion for justice began to manifest, drawing him into the world of labour unionism.

Education

Oshiomhole's commitment to self-improvement and his burgeoning role in the labour movement spurred him to pursue further education. He attended Ruskin College, Oxford, in the United Kingdom, a renowned institution specializing in economics and industrial relations. His studies there provided him with a robust theoretical framework for understanding socio-economic dynamics and the intricacies of labour negotiations, complementing his practical experience. Later in his career, Oshiomhole also undertook post-graduate studies at the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State, Nigeria, further broadening his perspective on national development and policy formulation.

Career

Oshiomhole's career trajectory is distinctly divided into two major phases: a highly influential period as a labour activist and a prominent role in partisan politics.

Labour Activism (1970s - 2007): Adams Oshiomhole rose through the ranks of the labour movement with remarkable speed and conviction. He first served as the General Secretary of the National Union of Textile Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria, a position he held for several years, advocating for the rights and welfare of textile workers across the nation. His leadership qualities and oratorical skills quickly made him a national figure. In 1999, a pivotal year for Nigeria's return to democratic rule, Oshiomhole was elected President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the umbrella body for trade unions in the country. He served two terms, from 1999 to 2007, during which he became a vocal and formidable critic of government policies, particularly those related to fuel price increases and privatization. Under his leadership, the NLC organized numerous nationwide strikes and protests, effectively challenging the government of President Olusegun Obasanjo and earning him significant popularity and respect among the masses. His tenure as NLC President cemented his reputation as a courageous and principled advocate for the common person.

Political Career (2007 - Present): After his impactful tenure at the NLC, Oshiomhole transitioned into partisan politics. In 2007, he contested the gubernatorial election in Edo State under the platform of the Action Congress (AC) party. Although the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) initially declared the People's Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Oserheimen Osunbor, as the winner, Oshiomhole vehemently challenged the results, citing widespread irregularities. His persistence paid off when, in November 2008, both the Edo State Election Tribunal and subsequently the Federal Court of Appeal nullified Osunbor's victory and declared Oshiomhole the rightful winner, paving the way for his inauguration as the Executive Governor of Edo State.

Governor of Edo State (2008-2016): As Governor, Oshiomhole embarked on an ambitious agenda to transform Edo State. His administration focused heavily on infrastructural development, initiating numerous projects including the construction and rehabilitation of roads, urban renewal programs, and significant investments in education and healthcare. His 'Red Roof Revolution' initiative saw the renovation and construction of hundreds of public schools, improving learning environments across the state. He also implemented civil service reforms and worked to attract foreign investment. He was re-elected for a second term in 2012, serving until November 2016. While his governorship was widely praised for its developmental strides, it also faced some controversies, notably a widely publicized confrontation with a market woman over sanitation and his infamous 'go and die' remark, for which he later apologized.

National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) (2018-2020): In June 2018, Oshiomhole was elected unopposed as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria's ruling party. In this capacity, he played a crucial role in the 2019 general elections, leading the party to victory, which saw President Muhammadu Buhari re-elected for a second term. His tenure, however, was marked by significant internal party conflicts and power struggles, most notably with his successor as Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki. These internal disputes escalated, leading to his suspension from his ward in Edo State. A series of legal battles ensued, culminating in a Court of Appeal ruling in June 2020 that upheld his suspension, effectively removing him from his position as National Chairman. Despite this, Oshiomhole remains an influential voice within the APC and in Nigerian political discourse.

Major Achievements

Adams Oshiomhole's career is replete with significant achievements across both the labour and political spheres. As President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, he successfully mobilized workers against unpopular government policies, notably resisting fuel price hikes and advocating for improved welfare and democratic governance, thereby solidifying the NLC's role as a powerful check on government power. During his two terms as Governor of Edo State, he spearheaded extensive infrastructural development, including the construction of hundreds of kilometers of roads, numerous schools under the 'Red Roof Revolution,' and improved healthcare facilities. He also implemented reforms in the state's civil service, enhancing efficiency and accountability. As the National Chairman of the APC, he successfully led the party to victory in the 2019 general elections, consolidating its position as the dominant political force in Nigeria.

Personal Life

Adams Oshiomhole's personal life has also been in the public eye. He was married to Clara Oshiomhole (née Aligbe), with whom he had five children: Cyril, Steve, Jane, Adams Jr., and Veronica. Clara Oshiomhole sadly passed away in December 2010 after a courageous battle with cancer, a loss that deeply affected him and his family. In May 2015, Oshiomhole remarried, tying the knot with Lara Fortes, a former model of Cape Verdean descent, in a widely publicized ceremony in Edo State. He is known for his dedication to his family and has often spoken about the importance of family values.

Legacy

Adams Oshiomhole's legacy is that of a tenacious and charismatic leader who profoundly impacted both Nigeria's labour movement and its political landscape. He is remembered as a fearless labour activist who gave a voice to the voiceless and championed democratic ideals during challenging times. As Governor of Edo State, he left an indelible mark through his ambitious developmental projects and commitment to improving public services, earning him the moniker 'Comrade Governor.' His tenure as APC National Chairman, while tumultuous, demonstrated his strategic political acumen and capacity to lead a national party. Despite controversies, Oshiomhole remains a towering figure in Nigerian politics, celebrated for his principled stands, developmental drive, and unwavering commitment to public service, leaving behind a complex but impactful legacy of activism, governance, and political leadership.