The Bauchi State House of Assembly has passed the Bauchi State Disability Protection and Disability Commission Bill, a landmark legislation aimed at safeguarding the rights and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across the state.
The bill, sponsored by the member representing Kirfi Constituency, Barrister Habibu Umar, seeks to fully integrate Persons with Disabilities into society by prohibiting all forms of discrimination and guaranteeing their social, economic, political, and civil rights.
Speaking during plenary presided over by the Speaker of the House, Abubakar Y. Sulaiman, Barr. Umar explained that the new law criminalises discrimination against Persons with Disabilities and prescribes penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for individuals or institutions that violate its provisions.
He further stated that the legislation mandates public buildings, facilities, and transportation systems to be made accessible through the provision of ramps, lifts, and other necessary support infrastructure to enhance mobility and independence for Persons with Disabilities.
According to the lawmaker, the bill also provides for the establishment of a Bauchi State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, which will be responsible for implementing the law, receiving and addressing complaints, and offering support to victims of rights violations.
Other key provisions of the law include guaranteed access to inclusive education, subsidised healthcare services, political participation, social protection, public housing, and poverty reduction programmes for Persons with Disabilities.
Barr. Umar noted that public institutions are required to reserve at least ten per cent of their programmes for the participation and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities.
He added that the legislation aligns with Bauchi State’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), reinforcing the state government’s commitment to inclusive governance and the protection of human rights.
With the passage of the bill, the Bauchi State Government is expected to commence full implementation of the law upon the Governor’s assent.
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