Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former governor of Edo State, has issued a direct challenge to veteran journalist Reuben Abati, daring him to a physical confrontation rather than "hiding behind TV" following what Oshiomhole termed as "mischievous" questioning during a television program.

The confrontation stemmed from Abati's interview with former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Channels Television, where Abati reportedly asked if Okowa had sought "permission from Oshiomhole" before defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during an interview on Tuesday's edition of Politics Today, Oshiomhole expressed shock at the line of questioning, stating: "I was particularly shocked that a senior editor could ask the immediate past governor of Delta state, Okowa, mischievously, I must say, with all due respect, 'did you get permission from Oshiomhole that your sins will now be forgiven before you decided to decamp to APC?'"

The senator questioned the implication behind Abati's query, asking: "How can you ask such a question? What is my role? I am part of the legislature. Is the legislature in charge of prosecuting anyone for wrongdoing?"

Oshiomhole did not stop there. He referenced Abati's past legal troubles, noting that the journalist was once "invited by the EFCC after he was Jonathan's spokesman" and questioned if he had played any role in Abati's subsequent political movements.

The former Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) president also expressed disappointment over Abati's Labour Day commentary, claiming the journalist deliberately overlooked his contributions to the labour movement despite previously writing an article titled "Oshiomhole the People's President" during his tenure as NLC president.

In a direct challenge to Abati, Oshiomhole stated: "If you're bitter because you failed to become deputy governor in Ogun State, is that why you're so paranoid and constantly attacking me? If you want to insult me, don't hide behind the TV, come out to the streets and let's settle it face to face."

This public spat highlights growing tensions within Nigeria's political media landscape as the country approaches future electoral cycles, with prominent political figures increasingly challenging journalists over their coverage and questioning.