The Traffic

"Adams Oshiomhole's Son Lands Key Political Role in Edo State: See His Surprising New Appointment"

By Achimi Muktar

In a significant political development, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, son of former Edo State governor and APC national chairman Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has been appointed as the Commissioner for Health in Edo State. The appointment, which comes as part of the new administration’s early moves, was made by Governor Monday Okpebholo, who was sworn in just hours earlier.

Governor Okpebholo, the recently declared winner of the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election, wasted no time in assembling his cabinet. Dr. Oshiomhole's appointment was one of three key positions announced on Okpebholo’s first day in office, signaling his intent to hit the ground running as Edo's new leader.

A Political Legacy Continues

Cyril Oshiomhole's appointment as Commissioner for Health is particularly noteworthy, given his father’s towering influence in the state’s political landscape. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a two-term governor of Edo State and former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), played a pivotal role in securing Okpebholo’s victory. His son’s new role cements the Oshiomhole family’s continued involvement in Edo’s governance.

An Impressive Academic and Medical Background

Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole is not only the heir to a political legacy but also boasts an impressive academic and professional background. A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery, Cyril went on to further his studies at prestigious institutions such as Tulane University, Harvard University, and Queen Mary University, London. He specialized in Environmental Health, Toxicology, Disaster Management, Clinical Research, and Gastroenterology.

This robust academic foundation makes Dr. Oshiomhole a natural fit for the Commissioner for Health role, where he will be tasked with improving healthcare delivery across the state.

Governor Okpebholo’s Bold First Moves

Alongside Dr. Oshiomhole’s appointment, Governor Okpebholo also named Musa Ikhilor as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Dr. Samson Osagie as the state’s Attorney-General. Ikhilor, a seasoned lawyer with over 11 years of experience in legislative drafting and parliamentary administration, is expected to bring a wealth of expertise to the state’s executive team.

Meanwhile, Dr. Osagie, who boasts an illustrious legal career, including serving as Vice President of the African Bar Association (West African Region) and holding legislative roles in both the Edo State House of Assembly and the House of Representatives, will now lead the state’s legal framework. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1995 and has since developed a distinguished career in both law and politics.

A Promising Start for Edo State

Governor Okpebholo’s early appointments reflect a strategic focus on experienced leadership and a commitment to delivering results for Edo State. With key figures like Cyril Oshiomhole, Musa Ikhilor, and Dr. Samson Osagie onboard, the new governor is setting a tone of competence and efficiency right out of the gate.

The political significance of Cyril Oshiomhole's appointment cannot be understated. With his academic credentials and the influence of his father, he is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the health sector in Edo. His mandate will likely include tackling the healthcare challenges that have plagued the state, from improving rural health services to upgrading medical infrastructure.

A New Era for Edo State Politics

The ripple effects of these appointments are sure to be felt throughout Edo State and beyond, as political observers note that Oshiomhole’s legacy continues to shape the state’s future. Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s support for Okpebholo during the election campaign has already paid dividends, with his son now holding a key position in the new government.

The new governor has made it clear that he intends to move swiftly to address the state’s most pressing needs. With Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole’s expertise in medicine and public health, Edo's healthcare sector may see significant advancements in the coming years.

As Edo State embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on Governor Okpebholo’s administration and the team of appointees he has assembled to help steer the state toward a brighter future.