Oshiomhole vs. Abati: Who Would Win the Street Fight?

What started as political commentary has taken an unexpected turn straight into a street fight territory. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North has publicly challenged veteran journalist and Arise, TV anchor, Dr. Reuben Abati, to a street fight over what he calls “disrespectful” and “mischievous” remarks made on live television.

The drama unfolded during an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, where Oshiomhole addressed a comment made by Abati on Arise TV’s The Morning Show.

In the segment, Abati sarcastically questioned if former Delta Governor Ifeanyi Okowa had sought Oshiomhole’s permission before defecting to the APC a jab that clearly struck a nerve.

“Let’s Settle This in the Streets”

Oshiomhole, clearly irritated, said:

“If you want to abuse me, don’t hide behind the TV; let’s meet in the street and fight it out.”

He questioned the logic behind dragging him into Okowa’s political decisions and asked why a legislator like himself would be linked to political ‘forgiveness’ in the first place. He didn’t name Abati directly, but his description left no doubt about who the challenge was aimed at.

Personal Jabs and Political History

The senator didn’t stop there. He aimed Abati’s past, referencing his arrest by the EFCC following his time as President Goodluck Jonathan’s spokesperson.

“Was I the one who granted him bail to leave PDP to go where he is?” Oshiomhole fired.

He also expressed disappointment over Abati’s failure to acknowledge his contributions to Nigeria’s labour movement despite once referring to him as “Oshiomhole the people’s president” in an article.

The remarks escalated even further when Oshiomhole accused Abati of holding a long-standing grudge, possibly stemming from his failed 2019 attempt to become deputy governor of Ogun State.

“If you are angry because you wanted to be a deputy governor and you lost… is that the reason you are paranoid?” he said.

So… Who Would Win the Fight?

Let’s break it down.

Adams Oshiomhole

• Former labour leader and protest organizer
  
• Known for street-level activism and physical energy
  
• Background in unionism and tough political battles
  
• Still carries the aura of a fighter, both verbally and physically
  

Reuben Abati

• Respected journalist and broadcaster
  
• Intellectually sharp, articulate, and a skilled communicator
  
• More at home with a pen or microphone than with fists
  
• Hasn’t exactly shown a ‘street fighter’ side in public
  

In a literal street fight, Oshiomhole likely has the edge. With a past rooted in union activism and protest marches, he’s no stranger to physical confrontation and high-pressure showdowns. He’s battle-hardened, both politically and physically.

However, in a war of words or intellectual takedown, Abati would be the favorite. His wit, composure, and command of the media space make him a formidable verbal opponent, so let the best man win.