Okpebholo Champions Equal Opportunity With Appointment of Visually-Challenged Law Officer

By Rosemary Okoduwa

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has appointed a visually-challenged lawyer, Ms. Kindness Ikponwonsa Idahosa, as a Law Officer in the Ministry of Justice, in what many stakeholders have described as a bold statement of inclusive governance and equal opportunity in the state.

The appointment was contained in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Ebojele Akhere Patrick, who noted that the gesture reflects the administration’s dedication to empowering persons with disabilities and recognizing talent beyond physical limitations.

Governor Okpebholo said the appointment reinforces the message that disability does not diminish potential, adding that there is “ability in every disability.” He stressed that his government is intentional about creating opportunities for hardworking Edo citizens regardless of their physical challenges.

Ms. Idahosa’s story has drawn admiration across the state. Diagnosed with Hereditary Sensory Neuropathy, a spinal condition that affected her mobility and vision, she dropped out of school in JSS 3 and spent 13 years at home before help came from the Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities, which provided a wheelchair and sponsored her return to school.

Her academic journey since then has been remarkable. She gained admission to study Law at the University of Benin, graduating with a Second Class Upper Division in 2023. She proceeded to the Nigerian Law School in 2024, completed her Bar Finals, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in September 2025.

Governor Okpebholo’s approval of her appointment, the statement noted, is a testament to his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusion and practical support for citizens who continue to push through life’s most difficult challenges.

Ms. Idahosa is expected to assume duties immediately at the Ministry of Justice.