Owerri, Imo State – The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has issued a passionate call to His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodinma, urging him to sign the Imo State Persons with Disabilities Discrimination Law into effect. This law, described as a landmark piece of legislation, is expected to address the pervasive marginalization of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across the state and promote their full integration into society.
In a statement signed by Godwin Unumeri, the acting director of CDD, The organization stressed the urgency of the law, which has been delayed for years, highlighting that 15% of Imo State’s population lives with one form of disability or another. With this significant demographic, the CCD emphasized that the time for action is now, calling on the governor to show leadership by addressing the challenges of exclusion and discrimination against PWDs in his second term.
An Urgent Call for Inclusion
The Imo State Persons with Disabilities Discrimination Law was passed by the Imo State House of Assembly on October 16, 2024, after tireless advocacy efforts by disability-focused organizations, community groups, and individuals. The CCD acknowledged and praised the Assembly’s efforts in scaling the bill through its final reading, bringing it to the governor’s desk for assent. The law is expected to guarantee the rights of PWDs, ensuring they are afforded equal opportunities to participate in socio-economic activities without fear of discrimination.
“The signing of this law is not just symbolic but essential for fostering a fair, inclusive, and progressive society,” CCD said in a statement. “Governor Uzodinma has a unique opportunity to demonstrate that his administration is truly committed to the principles of inclusion and equality. It is time to move beyond words and take decisive action that reflects the values of shared prosperity that his government advocates.”
Paving the Way for Progress
This appeal is part of CCD’s ongoing efforts under the “Enhancing Inclusive Democratic Governance in Imo State” project, funded by UKAID through the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room. The initiative has carried out multiple campaigns urging the government to prioritize the domestication of the Disability Law as a vital step toward advancing the welfare and rights of PWDs.
CCD has also repeatedly submitted memos and charters of demands to the governor, reinforcing the need for immediate action. The organization argues that by signing the law, Imo State will align itself with the national Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2019, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), and the global Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
A Law with National and Global Impact
Incorporating these frameworks into state legislation will not only enhance the human rights protections available to PWDs in Imo but also place the state on the map as a leader in disability-inclusive governance. “This law has the potential to create an environment where persons with disabilities are empowered to live independently, contribute meaningfully to economic development, and pursue their dreams without facing barriers,” the CCD said.
The CCD expressed optimism that Governor Uzodinma will prioritize this legislation, describing the act of signing it as a clear signal of the government’s commitment to building an inclusive and prosperous state.
Beyond Symbolism: The Power of Good Governance
“Signing this law is more than just a policy decision; it is a statement of intent about the type of society we aspire to build,” the CCD remarked. “It reinforces the notion that good governance is built on inclusiveness, equity, and the participation of all citizens, including persons with disabilities.”
The group further noted that the law would complement Governor Uzodinma’s manifesto of shared prosperity, positioning the state as a model for other regions to emulate. “An inclusive society leaves no one behind, and this law will serve as a critical lever to ensure that persons with disabilities in Imo State are not left out of the developmental agenda,” the statement added.
CCD: Advocating for Rights and Empowerment
The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is a leading advocacy organization established in 2002 in Lagos and registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Abuja. Since its inception, CCD has been dedicated to promoting the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of persons with disabilities across Nigeria. The organization works closely with communities, policymakers, and families to maximize the potential of PWDs and foster environments that support independent living and socio-economic integration.
Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, CCD continues to champion the dignity and human rights of PWDs, urging policymakers at all levels to prioritize disability inclusion.
A Hopeful Outlook
As the clock ticks on this critical moment for disability rights in Imo State, the CCD remains hopeful that Governor Uzodinma will act swiftly by signing the law, reinforcing his administration’s legacy as one that values equity and good governance. “With the governor’s signature, Imo State can take its rightful place among progressive states that are committed to leaving no one behind,” the CCD concluded.
The ball is now firmly in Governor Uzodinma’s court. The people of Imo State—and particularly its citizens with disabilities—are watching and waiting, hopeful that the long journey toward equality and inclusion will finally culminate in the governor’s assent to the Imo State Persons with Disabilities Discrimination Law.
