- After the elections, the governor appointed Cyril, Oshiomhole’s son, as the commissioner for health.
- The appointment was seen as a reward for Oshiomhole’s support, but Okpebholo denied that the senator had any influence over his decision, stating that Cyril was chosen based on merit.
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has debunked claims that Adams Oshiomhole, Senator representing Edo North, interferes with his administration.
Oshiomhole, who governed Edo State from 2008 to 2016, has been accused of being a dictator by some critics. However, Okpebholo disagrees.
“Even the man they say is a dictator doesn’t dictate anything; I’m seeing a different Oshiomhole,” Okpebholo said on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme.
Oshiomhole gives him a free hand, Okpebholo claimed. “Whenever I want to talk to him, he says, ‘My son, I know how you feel; just do it your way.'”
The Edo state governor also denied claims that he was handpicked by political godfathers to serve as a puppet leader.
He attributed his governorship victory to God, who used certain individuals to support his ambition. “Can you point out one godfather who was pushing me?” Okpebholo asked.
Oshiomhole actively supported Okpebholo’s campaign, attending rallies and speaking to the media on his behalf.
After the elections, Okpebholo appointed Cyril, Oshiomhole’s son, as commissioner for health.
Okpebholo denied that Oshiomhole influenced the appointment, stating that Cyril was chosen based on merit.