Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State and current representative for Edo North, has expressed his belief that his son, Cyril, is well-suited for the role of Commissioner for Health in the South-South state.
Oshiomhole shared his thoughts during an interview. In November, Cyril was appointed to the health commissioner position by Governor Monday Okphebolo, a close associate of Oshiomhole, shortly after Okphebolo assumed office.
The appointment of Cyril, who is a medical doctor trained in the United States, has sparked significant backlash, with critics labeling it a case of state capture and a reward for Oshiomhole’s backing during the governor’s electoral campaign.
When questioned about his stance on his son’s appointment, the former labor leader acknowledged that he had previously conveyed his concerns to the governor regarding the decision.
“I want to clarify that he does not work for me; perhaps Governor Monday is nurturing him. When I was governor, I intervened when he wanted to run for the House of Representatives. I advised against it and backed another candidate. When he expressed interest again, I did the same. This time, the governor chose him, and I believe he is qualified,” Oshiomhole stated.
He continued, “I did voice my concerns when I learned of the appointment. I reached out to the governor to express my apprehensions about how people might react. Those concerns were the reason I discouraged him from seeking election during my tenure. However, I must acknowledge that as an adult, I can only exert so much influence over his decisions.”
Oshiomhole emphasized the investment he has made in his children’s education, stating, “I wanted to spare them from the struggles I faced. Dr. Cyril is not merely a medical doctor from Ahmadu Bello University; he pursued postgraduate studies at two institutions in the U.S., including Harvard and a university in Louisiana, focusing on public health.”
He concluded, “His appointment is not a result of being Oshiomhole’s son; rather, it is because of his qualifications, which he has earned despite my name.”
