Ose Anenih Fires Back at Oshiomhole: “My Edo Roots and Igbo Heritage Don’t Make Me Less Qualified

Ose Anenih, the Director of Strategy at the Asue Ighodalo Organization, has strongly countered recent claims by Adams Oshiomhole that question his eligibility to run for office in Edo State. In an interview with Arise News, Anenih expressed his disappointment with Oshiomhole’s remarks, particularly the assertion that Anenih is a “stranger” in Edo because his mother is Igbo.

Anenih made it clear that his maternal Igbo heritage does not diminish his qualifications or commitment to serving the people of Edo State. He emphasized that being part Igbo doesn’t make him any less Edo, and he questioned the relevance of such comments in a discussion that should focus on the pressing issues facing the state.

In a pointed rebuke, Anenih drew attention to Oshiomhole’s own background, noting that the former governor grew up in Kaduna and began his career in the northern region of Nigeria. He also mentioned other prominent figures, such as Monday Okpebholo and Akpata, who have strong ties outside Edo but are still respected for their contributions to the state.

Anenih didn’t stop there; he accused Oshiomhole of using these divisive tactics to distract from the real issues plaguing Edo State, such as insecurity and hunger. According to Anenih, these problems stem from policies endorsed by the government that Oshiomhole represents.

“I was truly disappointed when he came and, instead of speaking to the issues that affect the Edo people—their insecurity, their hunger, all caused by policies pushed by the government he represents—he focused on Asue, claiming he’s a stranger and doesn’t speak the language. Does that make me any less qualified to run for office in Edo State? The irony is that Oshiomole grew up in Kaduna, his first job was in Arab Textiles in 1974. Monday Okpebholo grew up in Jos, where he set up his company, Interweb, and even expanded to Abuja. It’s a distraction they push when they have nothing else to offer,” Anenih asserted.

By bringing these issues to the forefront, Anenih challenges the narrative that heritage or language proficiency should define a candidate’s eligibility, urging the focus to shift to the critical needs of Edo citizens.