Edo disability community hail Okpebholo for historic appointment of first Permanent Secretary with disability

Benin – The disability community in Edo State has applauded Governor Monday Okpebholo for his commitment to inclusive governance following the appointment of Barrister Melody Ismaila Omosah as a Permanent Secretary in the Edo State Civil Service.

Omosah, who was previously a director in the state’s Ministry of Justice, is among 20 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries.

He is the first person with a disability to be elevated to the position in the state.

In a statement, the Edo State chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) described the appointment as a “landmark” and a significant milestone in promoting equal opportunities.

Signed by Chairperson Comrade Ann Obehi Ojugo and Secretary Ibrahim Momoh, the statement read: “We warmly congratulate His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Executive Governor of Edo State, on the historic appointment of Barr. Melody Ismaila Omosah as a Permanent Secretary. This is a clear demonstration of Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to inclusive governance.”

JONAPWD also commended Omosah and wished him a successful tenure. The group highlighted the governor’s support for persons with disabilities since assuming office, citing the establishment of the Edo State Disability Commission and assistance for the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

While appreciating these efforts, JONAPWD called for greater inclusion of persons with disabilities in governance and decision-making processes, as well as the full implementation of the Edo State Disability Law to ensure equal rights, accessibility, and opportunities.

“This appointment gives renewed hope that Edo State is advancing towards a more inclusive society where ability, competence, and merit are the basis for service,” the statement added.

Similarly, the Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities (NAPVID) expressed strong appreciation to Okpebholo for the appointment.

In a statement signed by NAPVID’s Board of Trustees chairman, Justice Peter O. Isibor (Rtd), the organization noted that the appointment sends a powerful message that leadership is determined by ability, character, and service, not by disability.

“It is a historic milestone that inspires hope among thousands of persons with disabilities that they can attain positions of leadership when given equal opportunities,” the statement noted. “It is a practical affirmation of the principles in the Edo State Persons with Disability Law.”

NAPVID pledged continued support for Governor Okpebholo’s vision of building an inclusive, equitable, and prosperous Edo State.

The appointment has been widely viewed as a positive step toward mainstreaming persons with disabilities in public service in the state.