NEWS
“Obi’s Business Is to Export Jobs and Import Unemployment to the Country” — Sen. Adams Oshiomhole Says, Criticizes Peter Obi’s Business Model
Former Edo State Governor and Senator, Adams Oshiomhole, has criticized the business model of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, alleging that his commercial activities relied more on imports than on local production.
Speaking during an interview on TVC on Monday, July 27, 2026, Oshiomhole argued that Nigeria’s long-term economic growth can only be achieved through investments that stimulate local production, create employment opportunities, and strengthen domestic industries, rather than an economy driven by imported goods.
The former governor maintained that businesses focused primarily on imports contribute little to job creation within Nigeria, insisting that sustainable economic development depends on encouraging manufacturing and value addition within the country.
To support his argument, Oshiomhole recounted an experience he claimed to have had while shopping at one of Peter Obi’s retail outlets. According to him, the incident reflected what he described as Obi’s preference for importing goods instead of promoting locally produced alternatives.
According to him, “I have said to people, ‘Obi’s business is to export jobs and import unemployment to the country. That is what he lives for. He’s a trader. He owns a shopping mall, and you go there. There was a time I went to buy red wine in one of his stores, and I was told Peter Obi was the sole importer of a particular brand of red wine or something from South Africa.”
Oshiomhole’s remarks are the latest in the growing exchange of criticisms among leading political figures as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum. His comments are expected to generate further debate over the role of imports, local manufacturing, and private sector investments in driving Nigeria’s economic development.