Tensions Flare: Oshiomhole Challenges Reuben Abati To A Street Duel Over Arise TV Remarks

In an unexpected turn of events, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North in the National Assembly, has issued a fiery challenge to veteran journalist and Arise TV co-host, Dr. Reuben Abati, urging him to leave the comfort of the studio and confront him in the streets of Abuja for a personal showdown.

Oshiomhole’s outburst, delivered during an interview on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme aired on Tuesday, was in reaction to what he described as a “mischievous and condescending” line of questioning posed by Abati during a recent segment involving former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa.

“I was shocked that a senior journalist would ask the former governor if he needed my permission to decamp to the APC, as if I hold the keys to political redemption,” Oshiomhole said, visibly agitated.

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The senator further accused Abati of harboring political grudges, suggesting his alleged bitterness might stem from his unsuccessful attempt to become deputy governor of Ogun State.

“If you’re angry because you lost an election, don’t take it out on me. If you want to attack me, stop hiding behind the TV cameras. Come out to the streets of Abuja and let’s settle it face to face,” Oshiomhole declared.

The clash has since ignited widespread reactions across political and media circles, raising fresh concerns about the thin line between journalistic critique and personal attacks, as well as the temperament expected of public figures in heated discourse.

As tensions rise, it remains to be seen whether this dramatic exchange will prompt further confrontation or pave the way for a much-needed dialogue on media ethics and political maturity in Nigeria’s democratic space.