Founder, Centre for Ability, Rehabilitation and Empowerment (C.A.R.E.), Dr. Chike Okogwu has mourned the passing of Barrister Danlami Basharu, a former JONAPWD President and one of the founding fathers of the disability rights movement in Nigeria, saying his death is a great loss to disability rights movement in Nigeria and beyond.
He said this in a statement made available to Inclusive News Network on Friday, 9th June 2023.
According to Okogwu, “Barr. Danlami was a tireless advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria, and his efforts led to the enactment of the Disability Act today. His legacy will continue to inspire us all.
“Barr. Danlami’s fight for the rights of PWDs in Nigeria was a long and difficult one. He faced many challenges and obstacles along the way, but he never gave up. He believed that every person, regardless of their abilities, deserved to be treated with dignity and respect. His advocacy work paved the way for the Disability Act, which has helped to improve the lives of countless PWDs in Nigeria.
“Personally, I have lost a dear friend and mentor. Barr. Danlami saw to my appointment on the board of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Program (SURE-P) to represent PWDs in the government of former president Goodluck Jonathan. He was always there to offer guidance and support, and I will forever be grateful for his kindness and generosity.
Barr. Danlami was a prominent disability rights activist in Nigeria and made significant contributions to the advancement of the rights of people with disabilities in the country.
Okogwu recalled some of Barrister Danlami Basharu’s accomplishments which played big roles on his life and that of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
“Barr. Danlami was a founding member of Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, JONAPWD, which emerged as a new authority under his leadership as National President.
“He was a tireless advocate for the rights of people with disabilities in Nigeria, and his efforts led to the enactment of the Disability Act in 2019.
” He saw to the appointment of Dr. Chike on the board of Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Program, SURE-P, to represent people with disabilities in the government of former president Goodluck Jonathan.
“Barr. Danlami’s advocacy efforts also included ensuring that persons with disabilities were mainstreamed within Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS programs.
“Barr. Danlami’s passing is a great loss to the disability rights movement in Nigeria and beyond. However, his legacy will continue to inspire us all to fight for the rights of PWDs and to create a more inclusive and equitable society.” He said.