By DADA AYOKHAI
The appointment of Andrew Momodu as Commissioner-designate by Governor Monday Okpebholo has generated controversy, with critics describing it as a snub to former Chief of Staff Gani Audu and former Governor Adams Oshiomhole
Momodu hails from Anwain clan, neighbouring the former Chief of Staff’s Audu Ayuele clan in Etsako West LGA, collectively referred to as “Club 3” hurriedly packaged a defection to the APC in Auchi after the announcement of his appointment.
He is a known ally and business associate of the former deputy governor, Philip Shaibu and former aide to Adams Oshiomhole.
Critics accused Momodu of abandoning APC during the time of need to join forces with Obaseki’s team to worked aggressively against APC Governorship candidates of the party, Ize Iyamu/Gani Audu and Okpebholo/Dennis Idahosa. In addition to being an House of Reps candidate of the PDP..
During this period, being from the same zone as Audu, Momodu allegedly leveraged the state government machinery to suppress Audu during elections yet still managed to deliver the APC party .
The Momodu appointment is seen as rewarding opposition and marginalizing Audu supporters, sparking concerns of unfair treatment to Audu whom many felt might be the target .
It’s been speculated that Gani Audu might be relinquished of the commissionership slot earlier approved for him.
The move has fueled tensions within the party, with some questioning the governor’s decision .
Oshiomhole previously accused Momodu of involvement in an attack on his Iyamho residence during violent confrontation at the first convocation of Edo University in November 2, 2019 in iyamho.
A claim Momodu has not publicly addressed.
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Controversy Surrounds Momodu’s Appointment as Commissioner-Designate
