Makurdi, Nigeria – In a bold move to enhance the rights and participation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) in collaboration with the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) has called on the Benue State Government to adopt the National Disability Act. This appeal was made during an advocacy meeting held on Tuesday with members of the Benue State House of Assembly.
Grace Jerry, the Executive Director of IFA, spearheaded the call for action during the meeting in Makurdi. She emphasized the urgent need for the Benue State Government to align with national standards and provide much-needed legal protections for PWDs. According to Jerry, the primary aim of the advocacy was to engage in a roundtable discussion with legislators to highlight the key demands and expectations of the PWD community from the state government.
“Benue is the only state in the north-central region that has not yet domesticated the National Disability Act,” Jerry noted. “This delay has left persons with disabilities in Benue without the legal protections and support that are essential to their inclusion and participation in society.” The National Disability Act, passed into law in 2018 and assented by the President in 2019, mandates comprehensive rights and protections for PWDs, but its benefits remain out of reach for many in Benue due to non-domestication.
Jerry highlighted the discrimination and marginalization faced by PWDs in Benue State as a result of this legislative gap. She asserted that the full participation of PWDs in democratic governance on an equal basis with other citizens is not only possible but necessary for a truly inclusive society. “The participation of Persons with Disabilities in democratic governance on equal basis with other citizens in Benue State is achievable,” she stated confidently.
The IFA’s advocacy outlines several critical benefits that the domestication of the National Disability Act would bring to the PWD community in Benue. One of the key demands is the allocation of 5% of political appointments to PWDs. This quota would ensure representation in positions such as Commissioners, Special Assistants, and Senior Special Assistants. Jerry believes this would be a significant step towards inclusive governance and equal opportunities.
Additionally, the IFA proposes the implementation of a quota system for legislative seats in Benue State to improve disability representation in legislation. This system would necessitate a collaborative effort between the government and party leaders to eliminate barriers that currently hinder PWDs from participating fully in the political process.
“The commitment from the Speaker and the House of Assembly to prioritize the domestication of the Disability Act in Benue State is crucial,” Jerry stressed. She urged the members of the state assembly to exert pressure on the state government to adopt and immediately send the National Disability Act to the State House of Assembly for domestication and passage.
The advocacy meeting, attended by several members of the Benue State House of Assembly, provided a platform for an open and constructive dialogue on the challenges and solutions related to disability inclusion. Legislators expressed their willingness to work towards creating a more inclusive environment for all citizens, including those with disabilities.
The Inclusive Friends Association, known for its relentless advocacy for the rights of PWDs, remains optimistic that the Benue State Government will heed their call. The organization believes that the domestication of the National Disability Act will pave the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and just society where PWDs can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
As the advocacy efforts continue, the PWD community in Benue State looks forward to a future where their rights are fully recognized and protected, and where they can participate in all aspects of society without fear of discrimination or exclusion. The onus is now on the Benue State Government and its legislators to take decisive action and make this vision a reality.
