In a groundbreaking move towards promoting social justice and inclusivity, the Benue State House of Assembly today achieved a historic milestone by passing the Benue State Persons with Disabilities Bill 2024 through its first reading. This momentous development represents a significant leap forward in the fight to establish legal protections and empowerment frameworks for persons with disabilities in the state.
During the plenary session, Hon. Saater Tiseer, the Majority Leader of the House, presented the bill with a passionate address that underscored its importance. Hon. Tiseer emphasized the urgent need to tackle critical issues such as accessibility, equal opportunities, and inclusion for persons with disabilities, stating that the bill serves as a testament to the Assembly’s commitment to ensuring no citizen is left behind in the state’s development.
“This legislation is not just about legal protections; it is about affirming the dignity and value of every individual, regardless of physical ability. It is a statement that Benue State is ready to embrace inclusivity as a core value,” Hon. Tiseer declared, receiving applause from his fellow lawmakers.
Advocacy Groups Push for Change
The passage of the bill for its first reading follows years of relentless advocacy by civil society organizations and disability-focused groups. At the forefront of this campaign are Hope Alive for Possibilities Initiative (HAPI) and Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), two organizations that have consistently championed the rights of persons with disabilities. These groups have organized town halls, stakeholder engagements, and public campaigns to draw attention to the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Benue State.
Speaking on the development, Executive Director of HAPI, Mrs. Patience Ogolo, hailed the bill’s progression as a victory for the disability community. “This is a dream come true for thousands of persons with disabilities in Benue State. It is proof that persistent advocacy can lead to meaningful change,” she said.
For IFA, the bill is a critical step toward aligning Benue State with the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018, a federal law that sets national standards for accessibility and inclusion. The group’s Executive Director, Grace Jerry, expressed optimism, urging lawmakers to ensure the bill moves swiftly through subsequent readings.
Benue: A Latecomer to Disability Legislation
Benue State’s legislative effort comes at a crucial time, as it remains the only state in North Central Nigeria without a disability-focused law. Advocacy groups argue that this gap has left persons with disabilities in the state vulnerable to systemic discrimination, limited opportunities, and inadequate access to essential services.
Neighboring states, including Plateau, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have already enacted disability laws, making Benue’s efforts long overdue. By passing this bill into law, the state would not only meet national and international standards but also signal its commitment to fostering a more equitable society.
“This legislation is a bold step towards correcting historical injustices,” said Dr. Emmanuel Ochai, a disability rights advocate. “It will create a roadmap for building an inclusive society where persons with disabilities can live with dignity and contribute meaningfully to community life.”
Provisions That Promise Change
Stakeholders have expressed high hopes for the bill’s provisions, which are expected to address critical areas affecting the lives of persons with disabilities. Key aspects of the proposed legislation include:
- Mandatory Accessibility Standards: Ensuring public buildings, transportation systems, and other essential services are accessible to all.
- Anti-Discrimination Measures: Protecting persons with disabilities from workplace discrimination and social exclusion.
- Education and Employment Opportunities: Establishing policies that promote equal access to education and economic empowerment.
If enacted, the bill will create monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance and establish penalties for non-adherence, sending a strong message that Benue State is serious about inclusion.
Catalyst for Regional Transformation
The potential impact of the Benue State Persons with Disabilities Bill 2024 goes beyond the state’s borders. Advocates believe it could inspire other states in the North Central region to adopt similar measures, creating a ripple effect of inclusivity across Nigeria.
“We cannot overstate the significance of this moment. Benue’s action today is a call to other states to prioritize the welfare of persons with disabilities. It is a blueprint for inclusive development,” said Mrs. Ogolo.
A Future of Hope
As the bill progresses to its second reading, there is a palpable sense of optimism among stakeholders. Advocacy groups, community leaders, and persons with disabilities are hopeful that the legislative process will be expedited, and the bill will soon become law.
“If this bill is passed, it will not just be a victory for persons with disabilities; it will be a victory for humanity,” Hon. Tiseer remarked, wrapping up the day’s plenary session.
The Benue State Persons with Disabilities Bill 2024 is more than a piece of legislation—it is a promise of a brighter, more inclusive future for thousands of people who have been marginalized for far too long. All eyes now turn to the Assembly as the disability community eagerly anticipates the next steps in this historic journey.
