Disability Rights Fund Program Officer, Theophilus Odaudu has lamented that Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria still suffer from discrimination, stigmatization, inequalities and violations of their rights despite subscribing to several international and domestic laws and policies that prohibit such violations.
He disclosed this in an interview with Inclusive News Network on Monday.
Explaining further, Odaudu added that the society has not shown enough commitment towards full realization of the rights of PWDs.
Speaking on the level of commitment and advocacy by various Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPD), Odaudu said “So far, I will say that OPDs have greatly improved in advocacy. If you look at the years of neglect and the skill gap as a result, you will agree that OPDs in Nigeria have improved.
“I cannot say that OPDs are doing exceptionally well, because not too many are out there doing real advocacy, but it is a gradual process and we are not doing badly. DRF is supporting quite a number of OPDs on their advocacy projects and we are gradually filling the gap.”
“At DRF, we believe in the principle: “nothing for us without us”. We therefore try to reflect this in all we do.
Asked if there is any plan to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disability (IDPD).
He said “Of course, we will celebrate the IDPD in our own way, but the real activities are with the organizations we support. So, some OPDs have requested support to organize events to celebrate the day and we are supporting them.
“Every year, there is a call for proposals from OPDs with advocacy ideas to advance disability rights. So, OPDs are to download and complete the Request for Proposal form, providing relevant information and attaching relevant documents. Upon review, successful applicants will be contacted for further consideration. It is important for intending applicants to visit our website – https://disabilityrightsfund.org/for-grantseekers/ for relevant information on eligibility and things we fund or do not fund.”
Odaudu advised OPDs to be united and speak with one voice. Adding that PWDs should see each other as partners fighting for a common goal and not as competitors.
“We should work towards building a more diverse and inclusive movement where the voices of the most marginalized, like women and girls with disabilities, the deafblind, persons with psychosocial disabilities and so on, will be heard. We can do more together.”