By Our Reporter
Benin City — It was a moment of pride and celebration at the Edo State Government House on Friday as Governor Monday Okpebholo swore in Mr. Melody Omosah, the state’s first physically challenged Permanent Secretary, alongside 19 other newly appointed permanent secretaries.
The ceremony, held at the Festival Hall in Benin City, marked a significant milestone for inclusion in the Edo civil service. Also inaugurated were two new commissioners and seven members of the Governing Council of the Edo State College of Health Sciences and Technology.
Governor Okpebholo described the appointments as the outcome of a transparent and competitive selection process, stressing that merit—not personal connections—determined those who emerged successful.
According to him, about 250 senior civil servants participated in the examination, while only 25 candidates advanced to the final stage. After personally interacting with them, just 20 were appointed.
“Today is a special day for all of you who have reached the peak of your civil service careers,” the governor said. “This administration believes in rewarding excellence, and your appointments reflect that commitment.”
He added that the Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, had spoken highly of the competence and professionalism of the newly appointed permanent secretaries, reinforcing the credibility of the selection process.
Governor Okpebholo also used the occasion to caution the new appointees against acting on unofficial instructions allegedly issued in his name.
“Don’t take action simply because someone says, ‘the governor directed it.’ If you’re unsure, verify with me or channel your concerns through the Head of Service. Due process remains the foundation of this administration,” he advised.
Reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance, the governor assured members of the Igbo community and other ethnic groups living in Edo that they would continue to enjoy equal opportunities under his administration.
“There is no discrimination in Edo State. We are building a government where everyone has a sense of belonging, and more opportunities will come for all,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in permanent secretaries, Mr. Omosah expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in them and pledged to work diligently to deliver the government’s policies and programmes.
“We appreciate the governor for this opportunity. We are committed to working with the Head of Service and other stakeholders to ensure the administration succeeds in serving the people of Edo State,” he said.
Also speaking after taking his oath of office, newly appointed Commissioner Mr. Martin Oli, the first non-indigene to serve in Governor Okpebholo’s cabinet, said the appointments reflected the governor’s belief in competence, integrity and capacity rather than ethnic or regional identity.
“The governor’s decisions are based on merit. He looks beyond tribe or place of origin and focuses on what people can offer,” Oli said.
For many observers, Omosah’s appointment stands out as more than a personal achievement. It sends a strong message about inclusion, equal opportunity and the growing recognition that physical disability should never be a barrier to leadership or public service.
