By Chris Agbo,
OWERRI, Nigeria – The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has applauded the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for signing into law the Imo State Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Discrimination (Prohibition) Bill, describing it as a watershed moment for disability rights, inclusion, and social justice in the state.
The law, now officially recognized as the Imo State Disability Law, marks a significant legislative victory in the long-fought struggle for equal rights and dignity for over 15% of Imo’s population who live with various forms of disability.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, Acting Director of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), expressed deep appreciation to Governor Uzodimma for “his bold and compassionate step” in enacting the law.
“This bold step affirms the administration’s commitment to justice, inclusion, and the protection of the fundamental rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs),” Unumeri stated.
A Victory for Inclusion: CCD Celebrates a Milestone
CCD, one of Nigeria’s foremost disability advocacy organizations, noted that this milestone would not have been possible without years of consistent advocacy and partnership among stakeholders. The Centre, through its Enhancing Inclusive Governance in Imo State Project, played a key role in driving public discourse and legislative pressure toward the bill’s eventual passage.
“As a critical stakeholder that has been at the forefront of advocating for this law, we recognize this moment as a significant victory for disability rights and social inclusion in Imo State,” the statement read.
The organization acknowledged the tireless work of the Imo State House of Assembly, civil society groups, disability rights advocates, and other champions of equity who stood firm in the pursuit of this historic law.
Now That the Law is Signed: What’s Next?
CCD emphasized that while the signing of the law is a commendable step, it must be followed by concrete actions to ensure that the spirit and letter of the legislation are implemented in full.
The Centre called on the Imo State Government to immediately set in motion the establishment of a Disability Commission — a key structure required for the law’s implementation, monitoring, and enforcement.
“This Commission must be adequately resourced and empowered to promote the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities and to address issues of accessibility, discrimination, and inclusion across sectors,” Unumeri urged.
Public Awareness, Inclusive Budgeting, and PWD Participation Key to Success
In addition to the establishment of the Commission, CCD highlighted the urgent need for intensive public sensitization campaigns to inform residents and institutions about the new law and their responsibilities under it. This, according to the Centre, is crucial for changing societal attitudes and breaking down barriers to full participation for PWDs.
The Centre also pressed for disability-inclusive budgeting processes, stressing that without financial commitment and policy alignment, the new law could remain dormant.
“It is critical that persons with disabilities are not just beneficiaries of policies, but active participants in decision-making processes — from planning to execution,” CCD emphasized.
CCD Reaffirms Commitment to Disability Rights in Imo
Reiterating its support for inclusive governance, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities pledged continued collaboration with the Imo State Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the rights enshrined in the new law translate into tangible, daily improvements in the lives of persons with disabilities.
“This is not just a win for the disability community — it’s a win for human rights, democracy, and the values of equality that bind us as a society. We stand ready to partner with all institutions to make this law a living document, not just ink on paper,” said Unumeri.
As the disability community celebrates this legislative achievement, the spotlight now shifts to the implementation phase, where the true test of leadership, accountability, and inclusion will be played out.
For millions of persons with disabilities in Imo State, this moment is more than symbolic — it is a promise that they matter, that their rights are valid, and that they too belong.
