Kano, Nigeria – In a surprising turn of events, the Joint Clusters of Kano State Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), operating under the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Kano State Chapter, have officially distanced themselves from a recent protest and press conference organized by the Kano Civil Society Forum (KCSF). The protest, which called for the establishment of a disability commission, has sparked controversy, with the disability groups asserting that they were neither consulted nor involved in the event.
In a statement released to the press, representatives from JONAPWD and the Chairmen of various disability clusters in the state strongly condemned the protest, claiming it did not reflect their values or methods of engagement. “We disassociate ourselves from the press conference and the alleged sponsored protest,” the statement declared. “Those individuals claiming to represent PWDs acted without our consent. Their approach does not align with our principles.”
The groups emphasized their commitment to constructive dialogue with the government rather than disruptive protests. They highlighted their belief in the effectiveness of the open communication channels established by the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, which they said has been responsive to their concerns. “We believe in utilizing the open channels of communication provided by the government, where our concerns are addressed promptly,” the statement continued. “Resorting to protests undermines the progress already achieved in promoting PWD inclusion in Kano State.”
The disability groups expressed strong support for the work that the state government has done to improve the lives of PWDs. They praised Governor Yusuf’s administration for its efforts in empowering persons with disabilities, calling Kano State the most disability-friendly region in Nigeria. “Governor Yusuf has consistently demonstrated a commitment to PWD development,” they noted, praising the administration’s swift approval of proposals submitted by disability groups. “Every proposal we’ve submitted has received prompt approval, reflecting his genuine support for our community.”
While the groups did not dismiss the idea of establishing a disability commission altogether, they stressed that such a move should be pursued through the proper channels, with collaboration and consultation rather than confrontation. “We do endorse the idea of a disability commission, but we must stress that such a commission should be established with full consultation and involvement of all relevant stakeholders,” the statement clarified.
The groups also took the opportunity to urge members of JONAPWD and the public to refrain from engaging in unauthorized protests or activities that might misrepresent the interests of the disability community. “We urge everyone to avoid actions that misrepresent our community. Collaboration, not confrontation, is our path forward,” the statement concluded, underscoring the importance of unity and peaceful dialogue in advocating for the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
This public disavowal of the KCSF’s protest and press conference represents a significant shift in the dynamics of disability advocacy in Kano State. While the KCSF’s call for a Disability Commission was meant to highlight the pressing needs of PWDs, the statement from JONAPWD and its affiliated clusters indicates a preference for a more cooperative approach with the state government.
The clash between these two groups over the protest has raised important questions about the direction of disability advocacy in Kano. It also underscores the diverse perspectives within the disability community about how best to approach issues like representation, policy advocacy, and government relations.
As the debate continues, the actions of both the government and disability groups will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of PWD inclusion in Kano State. For now, however, the message from JONAPWD is clear: constructive engagement with the government, not protests, is the way forward for advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
