Stakeholders, including the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), have urged the Edo State Government to establish a disability commission, as provided for in the 2022 Disability Rights Law.
At a policy dialogue, JONAPWD chairperson Ann Okufuwa stressed the importance of inclusivity, advocating for a commission led by a person with a disability to ensure fair representation and effective implementation of policies.
JONAPWD President Abdullahi Usman decried the ongoing discrimination faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs) nationwide, pointing to the lack of accessible infrastructure and systemic exclusion. He emphasized that PWDs should enjoy the same rights and privileges as other citizens.
Imonitie Omokhodion, representing the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RuLAC), criticized the sluggish enforcement of disability laws and called for continuous advocacy to drive change. He reaffirmed RuLAC’s role in supporting the enactment of the state’s disability law.
In a show of legislative support, Edo State House of Assembly Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, represented by Odike Iroube, pledged to work closely with the disability community, promising attention to budgetary allocations for disability-related initiatives.
Panel discussions explored the need for a more inclusive society, advocating for equal opportunities in education, healthcare, and employment. Participants stressed the urgency of concrete action to protect and promote the rights of PWDs in Edo State.
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