Yola – March 27, 2025
In a groundbreaking move towards inclusivity and social justice, the Adamawa State House of Assembly has passed a bill to prohibit all forms of discrimination against Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the state. The bill, which repeals the Adamawa State Disability Rights Commission Law No. 14 of 2016 and enacts the Adamawa State Persons with Disability Law Commission, aims to ensure the full integration of PWDs into society.
The passage of this bill marks a significant victory for disability rights advocates and the PWD community, as it paves the way for greater legal protections, equal opportunities, and a more inclusive Adamawa State.
A Major Step Towards Disability Inclusion
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Yohanna Sahabo Jauro, the representative of Mubi South Constituency, was one of four crucial legislations passed by the House. It seeks to create a legal framework that guarantees the rights of persons with disabilities and mandates their protection from any form of discrimination, exclusion, or unfair treatment.
Disability rights activists have long called for stronger legal protections and more effective implementation of policies to ensure accessibility and full participation of PWDs in various sectors, including education, employment, politics, and public services. With this new law, the Adamawa State government is taking a bold step toward achieving these goals.
Other Key Bills Passed by the Assembly
Alongside the landmark disability rights bill, the Adamawa State House of Assembly also passed three other critical bills:
- Adamawa State Climate Change Commission Bill – This bill seeks to establish the Adamawa State Climate Change Commission, which will be responsible for mainstreaming climate change actions in the state. It is a timely initiative aimed at addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change, including extreme weather conditions, environmental degradation, and agricultural instability.
- Prohibition of Spillage of Sand, Laterite, and Gravel on Highways and Roads Bill – This legislation seeks to curb road hazards caused by indiscriminate spillage of construction materials such as sand, laterite, and gravel. The bill aims to enhance road safety and prevent accidents caused by these obstructions on highways and other roads in Adamawa State.
- Amendment of the Adamawa State Public Procurement Law 2020 – The fourth bill amends the Adamawa State Public Procurement Law to make the appointment of the Chairman and three non-ex-officio members of the Public Procurement Commission full-time positions. This move is expected to improve efficiency, accountability, and transparency in public procurement processes within the state.
A Legislative Milestone for Adamawa State
The passage of these four bills followed separate motions sponsored by the Majority Leader and Member representing Demsa Constituency, Hon. Kate Mamuno Raymond. The bills underwent thorough deliberations and received unanimous support from lawmakers, reflecting the Assembly’s commitment to addressing critical issues affecting the people of Adamawa State.
Following the enactment of the bills, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bathiya Wesley, directed the Clerk of the Assembly to prepare clean copies for Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s assent. Once signed into law, these legislations will officially take effect, ushering in new reforms and protections for the people of Adamawa.
A Victory for the Disability Community
The passage of the PWD rights bill has been met with widespread applause from disability rights organizations, civil society groups, and human rights advocates. Many see it as a long-overdue measure to address the systemic discrimination and barriers that PWDs face in Adamawa State and Nigeria at large.
“This is a significant milestone for persons with disabilities in Adamawa,” said a spokesperson for a leading disability advocacy group. “For too long, PWDs have faced marginalization and exclusion. With this new law, we now have a legal framework that guarantees our rights and ensures that no one is left behind.”
The bill aligns with the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, which was signed into law at the national level in 2019 but has yet to be fully implemented in many states. Adamawa’s proactive approach is expected to set an example for other states yet to domesticate the law.
Governor’s Signature: The Next Step
As the bills await Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s signature, stakeholders are optimistic that he will promptly assent to the legislations, particularly the disability rights bill, which represents a major step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Disability advocates are urging the government to ensure that once enacted, the law is fully implemented, with adequate resources allocated for enforcement and monitoring.
Conclusion
With these bold legislative actions, the Adamawa State House of Assembly has demonstrated a strong commitment to social inclusion, environmental sustainability, road safety, and good governance. If fully implemented, these laws have the potential to transform the lives of many residents, particularly PWDs, who have long struggled against discrimination and exclusion.
As Adamawa moves closer to enacting these vital reforms, all eyes are now on Governor Ahmadu Fintiri to give his final approval, setting the stage for a more inclusive and progressive state where every citizen, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive.
