Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has called on Nigerian government to investigate incident of Hamza Waziri, a physically challenged individual’s brutal assault by the police during a hunger protest on Thursday.
INN reports that Hamza Waziri was captured in a video currently circulating on social media being brutally battered while exercising his constitutional right to peaceful protest in front of the Bauchi State Government House.
The protesters were prevented from gaining access to the Governor’s Office where they had planned to meet with the Deputy Governor, Auwal Jatau, in order to lay their grievances.
In a statement signed by CITAD PWDs Coordinator, Hamza Aminu Fagge on behalf of the Executive Director, Yunusa Zakari Ya’u, and make available to Inclusive News Network on Monday, the centre condemns the use of force by security agencies against peaceful PWD protesters.
Y.Z Ya’u urges Nigerian government to investigate these incidents and hold those responsible accountable.
“The recent treatment of Hamza Waziri, former chairman of the Agency for People with Disabilities in Bauchi State, during #EndBadGovernment protest is a stark example of rights denial. Its very unfortunate the kind of insulting video circulating on social media, securities manhandling protesters including those on wheelchair.
“Similarly, PWDs in Zamfara State and other parts of the country have faced similar incidents. It is unbearable to witness people with disabilities facing discrimination and marginalization in Nigeria, despite the laws meant to protect them.
“We must continue to advocate for change and push for a more inclusive society where everyone can feel comfortable and valued.”
The centre calls on civil society organizations to join hands and support efforts to ensure the full implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability 2018 in Nigeria.
Despite international human rights law, Ya’u notes that disability discrimination remains a pervasive issue, violating the rights of people living with disabilities.
He added “Innovative solutions and collaborative efforts are needed to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities in Nigeria and promote inclusivity and accessibility in the country.
“Together, let’s uphold the fundamental principle of equality and human dignity for all.”
CITAD calls for support, partnership, and collective action to address this critical issue and ensure a more inclusive and accessible Nigeria for people with disabilities.