The Executive Director of the Centre for Media Advocacy for the Disabled (CMAD), Sejoro Ekundayo, has joined voices across the country in mourning the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing him as a “symbol of hope” and “champion of disability inclusion.”
In a heartfelt tribute, Ekundayo recalled President Buhari’s landmark signing of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2019, a long-awaited legislation that provided legal protection and recognition for the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.
“For nearly two decades, advocates had pushed for a law to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, but it was under President Buhari’s leadership that it finally became a reality,” Ekundayo stated. “That singular act changed the lives of millions and placed Nigeria on the path toward true inclusion.”
Beyond signing the Act, the late President Buhari also established the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), a move hailed by disability rights groups as a bold and unprecedented step toward institutionalizing inclusion and accessibility for all Nigerians.
“His commitment was not just political—it was sincere and historic,” Ekundayo said. “He gave legislative backing to our humanity and restored hope to millions who had been kept on the margins of society for too long.”
While tributes have poured in from leaders and citizens across the globe, the disability community continues to celebrate Buhari’s legacy as one that brought visibility, dignity, and legal protection to one of Nigeria’s most marginalized populations.
“As he is laid to rest, we at CMAD pray his soul finds eternal peace. His legacy will live on in every Nigerian with a disability who can now dream and demand their rightful place in society,” Ekundayo added.
President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away recently, is being remembered across the country for his years of service and the various reforms initiated during his tenure, especially those targeted at uplifting vulnerable groups.
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