According to a statement released by his chief press secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Monday Okpebholo named Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole as his commissioner-designate for health. Idahosa said in an interview on Channels Television, that Cyril is a skilled physician who is entirely capable of holding the position of cabinet member.
He said, “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 pointed out that the former National Chairman of the APC was against his son’s nomination, refuting claims of nepotism and state capture.
“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.
Upon being compared with 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.”
On his role as deputy governor, Idahosa 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.”
