The special persons under the aegis of Deaf Women Association of Nigeria have called on governments at all levels to, as a matter of urgency ,provide sign interpreters in all agencies in the state .
They made the demand during an awareness rally in Ado, Ekiti state capital to commemorate international women’s day.
They also expressed concern over the high rate of discrimination against them in the society.
Speaking with newsmen through sign interpreter, the National President of Deaf Women Association of Nigeria (DWAN), Deaconess Adedoyin Beyioku-Alase, also worried over the poor attention of government to their plights hence the need for the rally so as to attract the attention of the appropriate authorities and to further educate their members on their right.
“We want the government to include us in everything, even in politics, We need signed interpreters in all government offices as well as hospitals, for effective communication and easy comprehension of our needs.
Mrs Bryioku Alase challenged Government to create more empowerment programmes for the deaf persons such as loans, vocational trainings and employment.
According to her, every citizen is equal irrespective of health status saying government should stop treating them like a slave.
The special persons had earlier paid homage to the Ewi in council and the office of the wife of the governor Erelu Bisi Fayemi where they also made their grievances known and solicited assistance in building better life for the deaf.
Presenting a paper a Guest Lecturer Mrs Uri Ngozichukwuka called on government to develop policies that would protect the interest of deaf women and girls.
She commended president Muhammadu Buhari for signing into law the disabilities bill but called for its effective implementation.
She called for more stringent punishments for those abusing deaf persons.
culled from inclusivenews
