Deaf groups, in their efforts to ensure members enjoy better services at Local Government level within the State, have called for greater accessibility in health centers, social gathering, others.
The groups made the call at a press conference organized by Ikorodu West Deaf Development Association. The conference aimed at creating awareness about deafness and Persons with Disabilities in Ikorodu and environs.
Guest speaker at the event, Mr. Gbenga Ogedengbe, in an interview with our correspondent after the press conference lamented that the Ikorodu West Deaf Development Association is not recognized. The same apply in some Local Governments Deaf Associations within the State.
Mr Ogedengbe further argued that although the Lagos State Government has assented to Lagos State Special People’s Law, some workers, including Government workers still deny Deaf groups their rights because, according to him, our disability is invisible and we look okay physically.
Ogedengbe, who is Special Assistant (SA) to the chairman, Bariga Local Council Development Area on Special People, added that other People with Disabilities (PWDs) are not excluded from the discrimination.
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He gave example of how Deaf members in the community in hospital for treatment will face communication problems in the absence of a sign language interpreter. He added that for such barrier to be eliminated, a sign language Interpreter is needed.
Ogedengbe called on the State Government to join in the advocacy for recognition of all categories of PWDs using the media. He also urged the State Government to engage sign language interpreting services in hospitals, schools and private establishments.
Another guest speaker, Engr. Olugbenga Ajayi, decried that some LGs don’t support deaf programs and they literally do nothing to contribute to the deaf community there. This, in his words, need to change.
According to Engr. Ajayi, “If there is no interpreter that’s a problem. Imagine a deaf person visiting a place, looking for education support, healthcare services or other things without an interpreter to bridge the communication gap. Chances are high that the person might be look despised and sent away. Now, that’s not okay. I therefore think every LG and LCDA should have, at least, one interpreter to enhance communication with deaf citizens”.
The Save Hearing Impaired Foundation Executive Director reiterated that Deaf persons have something to offer. According to him, ‘we are all equal’. There is therefore need for better accessibility in all LGs.
“Every LG should be obliged to reserve a part of their budget for the Deaf and other PWD categories. That way, everyone gain from the administration and none feels alienated”, he concluded.