The Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, has announced that the former Governor of the state, Adams Oshiomhole, opposed the nomination of his son, Cyril, as Commissioner for Health Designate.
Chronicle NG reports that Governor Monday Okpebholo appointed Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole as Commissioner for Health-designate last Tuesday, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua.
Speaking in an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, Idahosa described Cyril as a seasoned medical doctor who is fully qualified to bring his expertise to the cabinet.
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.”
Denying allegations of nepotism and state capture, Idahosa mentioned that the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) opposed his son’s nomination.
“This position has nothing to do with Adams Oshiomhole. In fact, Adams opposed it. He was against the nomination because of the vision the governor has for the people of Edo State. The governor made the decision to appoint Cyril based on competence, not because of his father,” Idahosa explained.
Speaking on former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s remarks about state capture, Idahosa added, “What is happening in Edo State is far from state capture. It is about ensuring competence and delivering results for the people.”
Speaking on his role as deputy governor, Idahosa stated, “The governor and I discuss cabinet matters, but my main statutory function as deputy governor is overseeing the boundary commission, which I will chair.”
