THE Centre for Citizens with Disability (CCD) has called for easy access to justice for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Lagos State and the country at large.
The CCD made the call in a statement on Monday in Lagos, noting that “equal access to justice is a fundamental human right that underpins the functioning of a fair and inclusive society.”
It states that access to justice is one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, providing access to justice for all.
According to the centre, lack of physical accessibility to justice centres, communication barrier, stigma, discrimination and others are parts of the challenges that restrain PWDs to justice.
It added that “access to justice ensures individuals can seek legal remedies and participate fully in legal processes to assert their rights.
“Many justice facilities lack accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, accessible parking spaces, restrooms and directional signs.
“These physical infrastructure barriers prevent PWDs, particularly those with mobility impairments, from entering and navigating these spaces independently.
“It is essential for PWDs to have equal protection under the law to safeguard and ensure effective participation, with the aim of promoting social inclusion and mitigate discrimination.”
The CCD noted that it had organised several fora to promote the interests of PWDs and to bring their plight to general knowledge, and the barriers they face in accessing justice on equal basis with others without disabilities.
It stated that the centre had engaged relevant stakeholders within the justice system like the police, civil defence, correctional centre, Ministry of Justice, human rights commission and the media.
“These engagements were targeted at enhancing access to justice for PWDs and effective reportage of disability-inclusive justice system through advocacy visits, sensitisation and capacity building workshops with remarkable outcomes.
“We, however, recommend that all security agencies must treat PWDs with dignity and evolve measures to address stigma, discrimination and infrastructure barriers hindering easy access to justice.
“CCD believes a more inclusive, equitable and accessible justice system for persons with disabilities in Lagos State and Nigeria is achievable.
“Addressing these challenges and fostering a more inclusive approach within the justice system is essential for ensuring that PWDs confidently access justice.
“The centre recommends and call on all justice providers to promote, enhance, and contribute significantly to a just and equitable society for all citizens, including those with disabilities. (NAN)