Oshiomhole Accuses Atiku of Contributing to the Collapse of NITEL, Delta Steel Through Privatisation
A fresh political controversy has emerged in Nigeria following allegations by former Edo State Governor and serving senator, Adams Oshiomhole, against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over the country's privatisation programme during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Oshiomhole reportedly accused Atiku of contributing to the decline of several government-owned industries, including the Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) and Delta Steel Company, through the privatisation exercise carried out under the Obasanjo administration.
According to reports, Oshiomhole made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television, where he criticised the handling of the privatisation of several public enterprises.
Oshiomhole Questions Nigeria's Privatisation Programme
The senator reportedly argued that some government-owned companies were transferred to private investors who lacked the financial strength and technical expertise required to manage them effectively.
He maintained that the consequences of the privatisation exercise were devastating for some industries, particularly workers who lost their jobs following the decline or closure of affected companies.
Oshiomhole, who previously served as a labour union leader before entering politics, also referenced his experience in the labour movement while discussing the impact of the privatisation programme on Nigerian workers.
Companies Mentioned in the Allegations
Among the establishments mentioned in connection with the controversy are:
NITEL: Nigeria's former national telecommunications company, which experienced years of operational difficulties.
Delta Steel Company: A major steel-producing establishment that struggled with operational and ownership challenges.
Other public enterprises: Several government-owned businesses that underwent privatisation during the Obasanjo administration.
Atiku Abubakar served as chairman of the National Council on Privatisation during the Obasanjo administration, placing him at the centre of the government's privatisation policy.
What Does This Mean for Atiku?
The allegations have brought renewed attention to the economic decisions made during previous Nigerian administrations, particularly the privatisation of strategic public enterprises.
However, it is important to distinguish between Oshiomhole's political accusations and independently established facts. Although several privatised companies experienced serious difficulties, attributing their entire decline to one individual requires a more detailed examination of the decisions, investors, ownership arrangements and subsequent management of each company.< /p>
The controversy also raises broader questions about whether Nigeria's privatisation programme achieved its intended objectives of improving efficiency, attracting investment and strengthening the economy.< /p>
Nigerians React to the Debate Over Privatisation
The development is likely to reignite discussions about the management of Nigeria's public assets and the long-term consequences of selling government-owned businesses to private investors.
For many Nigerians, the condition of former industrial establishments remains an important issue, especially considering the country's continuing efforts to promote industrialisation, create employment opportunities and reduce dependence on imported goods.
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>As political discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections continue, comments about the economic decisions of previous administrations are expected to remain part of the national conversation.What is your opinion? Did Nigeria's privatisation programme achieve its intended purpose, or did the country lose valuable public assets in the process? Share your thoughts in the comment section.</p>
Source: Channels Television and published reports on Adams Oshiomhole's interview.
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