By Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday swore in the state’s first virtually impaired Permanent Secretary, Mr. Melody Omosah, alongside 19 others, describing the appointments as a reflection of his administration’s commitment to merit, competence and inclusiveness.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Festival Hall of Government House, Benin City, also witnessed the inauguration of two commissioners and seven members of the Governing Council of the Edo State College of Health Sciences and Technology.

Governor Okpebholo said the appointments followed a transparent and rigorous selection process, noting that only the most qualified candidates emerged.

“About 250 officers sat for the examination. I met with 25 candidates, but only 20 were successful,” he said, adding that the appointments were based strictly on merit.

The governor said the Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, had confirmed the competence of the newly appointed permanent secretaries, assuring them of his administration’s support.

He urged the appointees to uphold due process and avoid acting on directives falsely attributed to him.

“If you are uncertain about any directive, seek clarification from me. Where that is not possible, channel your concerns through the Head of Service,” he advised.

Okpebholo also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, assuring members of the Igbo community and other ethnic groups of equal opportunities in government.

“There is no discrimination in Edo. We are building an inclusive government, and there will be more opportunities for all groups,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in permanent secretaries, Omosah expressed appreciation to the governor for the confidence reposed in them and pledged their commitment to implementing the administration’s policies and programmes.

Also speaking, newly sworn-in Commissioner, Mr. Martin Oli, described Governor Okpebholo as a leader who prioritises competence, integrity and capacity over ethnic or regional considerations in making appointments.