In a groundbreaking step toward social justice and inclusion, the Imo State House of Assembly on Wednesday passed the Imo State Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Prohibition Bill, signaling hope for thousands of residents with disabilities. The bill, sponsored by Hon. Engr. Innocent Ikechukwu Ikpamezie, now awaits the signature of Governor Senator Hope Uzodinma to become law.
The passage of this bill is set to transform the landscape for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Imo State by guaranteeing their access to education, employment, healthcare, and public infrastructure. More importantly, the bill provides legal recourse to hold accountable any individual or institution that discriminates against or denies PWDs their fundamental rights.
PWDs Celebrate a Historic Victory
The news was met with celebration and gratitude from the PWD community in Imo State, who have long fought for recognition and equal rights. In their excitement, they praised the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, for his leadership and support in seeing the bill through to this critical stage.
Among those celebrating is Prince Ikechukwu Ibeh, a prominent disability rights advocate, who described the passage of the bill as a monumental achievement for the disability community. He commended the collective efforts of advocacy groups, including The Qualitative Magazine, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), and Comrade Chris Agbo, whose tireless campaigns were pivotal in driving the legislation forward.
Acknowledging Champions of the Cause
Ibeh also paid special tribute to Hon. Benard Ozoemena, the Chairman of the House Committee on Humanitarian Affairs, whose unwavering passion and commitment ensured the success of the bill. “Hon. Ozoemena worked tirelessly and led the charge to get us to this point. His dedication will forever be remembered by the disability community,” Ibeh remarked.
A Milestone with Eyes on the Governor
With the bill now passed by the Assembly, all attention shifts to Governor Hope Uzodinma, whose assent will officially enshrine the bill into law. If signed, Imo State will join the growing list of states in Nigeria prioritizing the rights and welfare of PWDs, a move that aligns with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, a federal law.
A New Era for Inclusion in Imo State
The bill’s potential impact cannot be overstated. Once signed into law, it will serve as a lifeline for PWDs, ensuring they can participate fully in society without fear of discrimination. The law will mandate equal access to education, employment, and healthcare and improve the accessibility of public buildings and facilities. Violators who deny PWDs these rights will face stiff penalties, setting a precedent for accountability and inclusion.
For PWDs in Imo State, this legislative victory represents not just a law but a promise of dignity, equality, and opportunity. As the community eagerly awaits the governor’s assent, hope is high that this law will mark the beginning of a more inclusive and compassionate era in Imo State.
The journey to this point has been long and challenging, but with collaborative advocacy, government action, and continued public support, the future now looks brighter for PWDs in Imo State. All eyes are now on Governor Uzodinma, as the disability community holds its breath for what could be a defining moment in the state’s history.
