Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, has revealed that former Governor Adams Oshiomhole opposed the nomination of his son, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, as Commissioner for Health-designate.
Governor Monday Okpebholo had announced Cyril’s appointment last Tuesday in a statement issued by Fred Itua, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary.
During an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, Idahosa described Cyril as a highly qualified medical professional.
He stated, “Senator Adams Oshiomhole is a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and his son, like any other individual, has his own destiny. Cyril is a seasoned medical doctor. He studied in Nigeria and went on to further his studies in the United States.
“He is fully qualified to be in the cabinet. The fact that he is Oshiomhole’s son does not disqualify him from holding a position he is competent to manage. He will serve as Commissioner for Health based on merit.”
Idahosa refuted allegations of nepotism and dismissed claims of state capture linked to the appointment.
He explained, “This position has nothing to do with Adams Oshiomhole. Adams opposed it. He was against the nomination because of the vision the governor has for the people of Edo State. The governor decided to appoint Cyril based on competence, not because of his father.”
Responding to comparisons with former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s comments about state capture, Idahosa rejected such notions outright. He remarked, “What is happening in Edo State is far from state capture. It is about ensuring competence and delivering results for the people.”
On his responsibilities as deputy governor, Idahosa elaborated on his contributions to cabinet discussions and his statutory duties. He said, “The governor and I discuss cabinet matters, but my main statutory function as deputy governor is overseeing the boundary commission, which I will chair.”
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