People with Special disabilities in Benue state Monday called on the state government to immediately domesticate and implement the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, saying “Benue is the only state in North Central Nigeria yet to domesticate the law.”
This is even as data has revealed that eleven percent (11%) of the Internally Displaced Persons IDPs in the state are people with disabilities.
Speaking at a stakeholders meeting on the needs and rights of people with special needs in Benue state held Monday in Makurdi, Special Adviser to the Governor on People with Special Needs, Hon Bem Anshe, commended Governor Hyacinth Alia, for recognising the rights and abilities of people living with disabilities after years of neglect by past administrations.
Anshe, a blind and passionate advocate for disability rights, said, “Let’s look beyond disabilities, and focus on their untapped potentials.”
He expressed concern over the delay in the domestication of the law for persons with disabilities by the state House of Assembly, noting that Benue remained the only North Central state yet to adopt the crucial legislation.
In his remarks, Director General Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD), Aondoaseer Leonard-Angelo Viashima, stated that Governor Alia, is taking decisive action to address the needs of persons with disabilities, adding that a committee has been formed by the governor to review existing policies and laws related to disabilities.
“The goal is to identify gaps and ensure effective implementation. A total of 49 policies are under scrutiny, and once the necessary revisions are complete, the governor will assent or approve.
“Stakeholders’ meetings like this play a pivotal role in this process. These gatherings provide a platform for people with disabilities to voice their concerns and contribute to shaping policies that directly affect them.
“The governor emphasizes the importance of their input, recognizing that their lived experiences hold valuable insights.
“Notably, there are individuals with disabilities in IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) camps across the state. Among them are the blind, the deaf, and others facing various challenges.
“Governor Alia’s commitment extends to these vulnerable populations, ensuring that their voices are heard,” he added.
On her part, Stephen Idoko of the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), said there is need for action to solve problems associated with disabilities by domesticating the law on people with disabilities.
He said the meeting is necessary to ensure that the bill for disabilities is passed into law in the state.
He said his office has already developed a road map to strengthen engagement and urged the
Media to amplify the challenges of people with disabilities and how government can solve them.
Various persons with disability including Collins Werkaa, Jacinta Igwilo among others lamented the discrimination against people with disabilities in the state.
They said most of them find it difficult to access hospitals, Government offices, schools and other public places.
They all called for immediate passage of the law against discrimination of people with disabilities, which they agreed will provide solutions to their problems.