The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Enugu state Frank Nweke has promised protection, inclusion and implementation of Disability Act in the state if elected.
He also said he was committed to the welfare of the People with Disabilities (PWDs).
Nweke stated this when his Okeifufe Campaign group delivered a wheelchair to a PWDs in Enugu simply identified as AbdulRahman.
AbdulRahman had encountered the APGA governorship candidate while he was on a campaign market tour to Ogbete Main Market, Enugu.
The interaction was said to have ended with the promise of a wheelchair which was delivered by Nweke and members of his campaign team on Monday in Enugu.
Speaking, Nweke said he had consistently stated his commitment to prioritising the rights and well-being of PWDs in the State.
“I have been backing my words with the provision of wheelchairs and crutches to those with mobility problems”.
He also outlined the key ways his administration planned to improve the lives of the Persons with disabilities and provide opportunities for every individual to be a partner in the development of the State.
“We will develop a data-driven approach that identifies the vulnerable in our state and integrate everyone in our plans for education, health, human rights, environment and social services.
“Our administration will be inclusive and PWDs will have adequate representation in our government as APGA philosophy of Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya – ‘Do not leave your brother behind’ will be what will guide everything we do and no one will be left behind.
“We will ensure that our urban planning, infrastructure, regulations, institutions are developed to foster accessibility, inclusion, protection of rights and implementation of the Disability Act.”
Nweke added that his government would ensure that public buildings are well equipped with ramps to make mobility easier for PWDs.
“We will work with all stakeholders from non-governmental organisations, the private sector and faith-based organisations to create opportunities for empowerment and self-sustenance, while providing welfare packages for the most vulnerable members.
He hinted that their mission would be driven by the eight Sustainable Development Goals aimed to “promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.”
The APGA governorship candidates further explained that they would embark on reorientation and enlightenment programmes to shift cultural beliefs and behaviours against PWDs.
“With these foundational approaches, my administration seeks to restore dignity to all regardless of status and drive inclusion at all levels of government and economy.
“It is also worthy of note that APGA in Enugu State have PWDs as party leaders and candidates, with competence, character and the capacity to deliver,” Nweke said.
NAN
