The Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, has disclosed why former Governor Adams Oshiomhole opposed the nomination of his son, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, as Commissioner for Health-designate.
Governor Monday Okpebholo had announced Dr. Cyril’s appointment last Tuesday in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua.
In an interview on Channels Television, Idahosa described Cyril as a highly qualified medical doctor whose expertise earned him the position.
“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 who studied in Nigeria and furthered his education in the United States. He is fully qualified to serve in the cabinet. His competence, not his family name, secured him this role,” Idahosa stated.
The deputy governor refuted claims of nepotism, emphasizing that Adams Oshiomhole was against the nomination.
“This appointment is entirely based on merit. Adams Oshiomhole opposed his son’s nomination because he wanted to ensure the governor’s vision for Edo State remains uncompromised. The decision was made purely on Cyril’s qualifications and abilities,” he said.
Idahosa dismissed comparisons to state capture, explaining that the focus in Edo State is on competence and service delivery.
“What we are doing in Edo is far from state capture. It is about ensuring that only the best minds contribute to governance and the well-being of our people,” he added.
On his own role, Idahosa mentioned that while he contributes to discussions on cabinet matters, his main duty as deputy governor is chairing the boundary commission.
