By Agbo Christian Obiora
Abuja, Nigeria – June 26, 2025 — In a resounding triumph for the Nigerian disability community and a powerful statement on the resilience of women with disabilities, justice has finally been served for Rose Utoko Monkom, a visually impaired landlady who endured over a year of torment, intimidation, and wrongful accusations.
In a landmark ruling on June 24, 2025, at the Bwari High Court, Hon. Justice Okechukwu John Akweke affirmed Rose’s rights as the lawful owner of her property, ordered her tenant, Mrs. Deborah, to vacate the premises, and condemned the series of injustices she suffered. The judgment represents not just a personal victory, but a beacon of hope for countless women with disabilities who continue to face discrimination, systemic abuse, and legal neglect across the country.
A Tenant’s Tyranny and a Landlady’s Ordeal
What began as a routine tenancy relationship in 2023 quickly escalated into a nightmarish ordeal for Rose, who is visually impaired. Her tenant, Mrs. Deborah, reportedly stopped paying rent and continued occupying the property unlawfully well into 2024 and 2025. Despite several civil pleas and attempts at peaceful resolution, Mrs. Deborah exploited Rose’s disability, assuming—wrongly—that her landlord’s visual impairment would hinder any pursuit of justice.
The situation took an even darker turn when Rose, in a bid to reclaim her rights, was falsely accused of stealing ₦350,000. Shockingly, this accusation led to her detention by officers at the Bwari Police Division. Rather than conducting an impartial investigation, the police reportedly coerced Rose, attempting to force a confession for a crime she had no hand in. This experience not only violated her rights but further traumatized her.
The Power of Advocacy and Solidarity
Refusing to be broken by the injustice, Rose sought help—and help came. On March 25, 2025, the Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI) intervened, offering critical legal support, psychosocial care, and mobilization of the disability community. Their swift response marked a turning point in the case.
AWWDI, under the leadership of Mrs. Patience Ogolo Dickson, Executive Director and long-time disability rights advocate, rallied support and coordinated every legal step. Through their unwavering advocacy, the case gained national attention, setting the stage for what would become a major legal precedent.
Despite repeated adjournments—owing to Mrs. Deborah’s failure to appear in court on May 16 and May 23—the Bwari High Court upheld due process and remained resolute in ensuring justice. When Mrs. Deborah finally appeared, the court ordered her to vacate the property by June 2, 2025.
On June 24, 2025, the court delivered its final judgment: Rose was vindicated. The ruling confirmed her property rights, denounced the harassment and intimidation she faced, and directed the enforcement of her legal ownership.
Community Support That Made the Difference
Throughout the legal journey, the Bwari disability community stood firm beside Rose. From attending court sessions to contributing resources for transport and feeding, their unity was an unshakable pillar of support. Their solidarity reflects the spirit of shared struggle and collective strength that continues to define disability advocacy in Nigeria.
Special mention goes to the Bestman Solicitor Chambers for their pro bono legal representation. Lawyers Barr. Joy and Barr. Daudau Buba Ndirimbita handled the case with exceptional professionalism, refusing to charge appearance fees or accept any financial assistance. Their selfless service was a clear reminder that justice should never be for sale.
A National Symbol of Hope
Speaking after the judgment, Mrs. Patience Ogolo Dickson described the ruling as “a defining moment for women with disabilities across Nigeria.” She stated:
“This victory is not just about Rose; it is about every woman with a disability who has ever been silenced, ignored, or oppressed. It is proof that when advocacy is strong, when the community is united, and when justice is pursued without fear, victory is possible.”
Indeed, the case has now become a symbol of what’s achievable when the law is engaged strategically, and when women with disabilities are supported to speak out and seek redress.
Implications Beyond the Courtroom
The outcome of Rose’s case is expected to spark broader discussions about the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria, especially women who often suffer dual discrimination—on the basis of both gender and disability. It sheds light on the urgent need for:
- Inclusive justice systems that respond to the specific vulnerabilities of PWDs;
- Strengthened legal aid services to assist indigent persons with disabilities;
- Greater accountability among law enforcement agencies, particularly concerning how they treat complainants with disabilities;
- Increased awareness of the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, which is often under-enforced.
A Victory Etched in Courage
As Rose Utoko Monkom regains access to her home and her dignity, her story is not just one of legal triumph—it is a testament to courage, perseverance, and the strength of community. Her voice joins a growing chorus of women with disabilities demanding not just inclusion, but justice.
While the road ahead remains challenging for many like Rose, this landmark judgment sends a clear message: disability is not a license for abuse, and no one is above the law.
For the Nigerian disability community, and for advocates of justice everywhere, this is a moment to celebrate, reflect, and renew the fight for equality. Justice has spoken—and this time, it spoke loud enough for the whole nation to hear.
