Convener, Edo Disability Forum, Melody Omosah, yesterday urged the Edo State government to support Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), saying they have been adversely impacted, following the fuel subsidy removal policy.
Omosah said that some people with disabilities are considering suicide, as a result of the current economic hardship and suffering.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), Osarodion Ogie, in the Government House, Benin City, Omosah said that the current economic situation occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal is unbearable, suffocating, and frustrating for PWDs in the state.
He said: “Some PWDs stay at home without hope for the next meal. They are increasingly feeling lonely, over- thinking and depressed.
“Wives of disabled persons have abandoned their husbands because of hardship. Husbands of disabled women have also abandoned their wives because of their suffering.”
He said that PWDs are three times more disadvantaged and disproportionately affected by the fuel subsidy removal, noting that the policy is fostering inequality and inequity against PWDs, as well as limiting their inclusivity and opportunities.
“The effect of the fuel subsidy removal policy on PWDs is particularly severe, as they grapple with heightened vulnerability in the absence of adequate social protection mechanisms,” Omosah said.
“The effect of the fuel subsidy removal policy on PWDs is particularly severe, as they grapple with heightened vulnerability in the absence of adequate social protection mechanisms,” Omosah said.
Responding, Secretary to the Edo State Government, pledged the government’s support for PWDs in the state to cushion the hardship and suffering they are experiencing.