In a significant step towards advancing disability rights and accountability, Osun State played host to the Day 2 Policy Dialogue on Strengthening Accountability Frameworks on the Post-Moratorium Cycle of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in Nigeria. The high-level dialogue, which brought together key stakeholders, focused on enhancing the enforcement, monitoring, and accountability of disability rights laws, particularly within Osun State.
The event provided a critical platform for government representatives, disability rights advocates, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations to deliberate on strategies for ensuring full implementation of disability inclusion policies and holding violators accountable.
Legislative Support for Disability Rights Enforcement
One of the highlights of the event was the powerful contribution of Hon. Adeyemi Adewumi (Irekandu), a distinguished member of the Osun State House of Assembly. Addressing the gathering, he underscored the vital role of legislative bodies in ensuring that disability rights laws are not just enacted but fully implemented.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Osun State Assembly to embedding the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act into state policies and governance frameworks. Hon. Adewumi stressed that collaboration across all levels of government, civil society organizations, and disability groups is essential for effective enforcement.
“Legislation alone is not enough; we must actively ensure these laws translate into real-life benefits for persons with disabilities. Enforcement, monitoring, and accountability mechanisms must be strengthened to end discrimination and promote inclusion,” he stated.
Osun State Bureau of People with Disabilities: Championing Grassroots Implementation
Rotarian Ayobami Oyetunde, the Executive Secretary of the Bureau of People with Disabilities in Osun State, highlighted the critical role of the Bureau in implementing disability rights laws at the grassroots level. He outlined ongoing efforts to sensitize the public on the law’s provisions, particularly targeting private sector organizations, educational institutions, and healthcare providers.
Despite progress, he acknowledged the persistent challenges in raising awareness, ensuring accessibility in public spaces, and securing commitment from relevant stakeholders.
“Our priority is to create an inclusive society where PWDs can thrive without barriers. This requires educating communities, engaging stakeholders, and addressing infrastructure deficits that hinder access for persons with disabilities,” he emphasized.
Call for Stronger Monitoring and Complaint Mechanisms
A major point of discussion was the importance of strengthening accountability mechanisms to ensure that persons with disabilities have accessible avenues to report cases of discrimination. Representatives from various special needs groups called for robust monitoring systems that will hold violators accountable and ensure justice for affected individuals.
They further advocated for the establishment of special disability desks in government agencies to oversee policy implementation and complaints resolution.
Law Enforcement Agencies Pledge Commitment
In a significant show of support, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) pledged to play a more active role in enforcing disability rights laws. The corps, represented at the event, reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and protecting the rights of all citizens, including PWDs.
“We recognize our responsibility in identifying and addressing discriminatory practices against persons with disabilities. We will continue to work closely with other agencies to enforce compliance and ensure justice is served,” the NSCDC representative assured.
Community-Based Interventions as a Game Changer
Another powerful voice at the dialogue was Dr. B.O. Ayeni, representing the Community Advancement for Self-Reliance (CAI4SR). He stressed the need for a shift in societal attitudes toward disability, urging communities to take ownership of disability inclusion efforts.
“True progress begins at the community level. If we fail to integrate PWDs into our local structures—education, employment, governance—then we are failing as a society. Empowerment through education, economic opportunities, and policy advocacy is key,” Dr. Ayeni remarked.
CAI4SR reaffirmed its commitment to improving the lives of PWDs through community-driven interventions that promote self-reliance and active participation in society.
JONAPWD Calls for Stronger Government Commitment and Funding
A passionate call to action was delivered by Comrade Abdullahi Aliyu Usman, National President of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD). In his speech, he reinforced the need for continuous advocacy and pressure on the government to fully implement disability rights laws.
He called on the state and national governments to allocate sufficient funds for disability initiatives, ensuring that PWDs have equal access to rights, services, and opportunities.
“Laws without funding are merely words on paper. We must push for increased budgetary allocations that support accessibility, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities,” Usman stated.
Additionally, he emphasized the need for specialized training for law enforcement personnel and public service workers on disability rights and inclusive service delivery.
Local Disability Advocates Share Experiences and Challenges
The dialogue also provided an opportunity for the Executive Members of Osun State JONAPWD and Cluster Heads to share their grassroots experiences. Their insights shed light on the practical challenges faced by PWDs in accessing services and navigating an often exclusionary system.
They stressed the need for a multi-stakeholder approach, where government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector work collaboratively to address systemic barriers.
Addressing Barriers to Implementation
Throughout the discussions, participants highlighted several barriers that hinder the effective implementation of disability laws, including:
- Lack of accessible infrastructure
- Limited public awareness and persistent societal stigma
- Inadequate funding for disability programs
- Weak enforcement mechanisms and lack of accountability
Despite these challenges, the dialogue reaffirmed a shared commitment to bridging these gaps and creating a more inclusive Osun State.
The Way Forward: Strengthening Collaboration and Accountability
As the event drew to a close, speakers outlined the next steps to ensure full implementation of disability rights laws. These include:
- Strengthening accountability and monitoring frameworks to track compliance.
- Enhancing collaboration with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities to streamline enforcement mechanisms.
- Increasing public awareness campaigns to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusion.
- Expanding accessibility efforts in public spaces, transport systems, and service delivery points.
- Creating local accountability units to address complaints and policy violations swiftly.
Hon. Adeyemi Adewumi and Rotarian Ayobami Oyetunde both stressed the importance of collective action in advancing disability rights. They reaffirmed their commitment to working with JONAPWD and other stakeholders to dismantle barriers and promote true inclusivity.
Conclusion: A Pledge for a More Inclusive Future
The Osun State Policy Dialogue on Disability Rights was more than just a conversation—it was a resounding call to action. The event reinforced the determination of government officials, civil society leaders, and disability advocates to ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities move from legislation into action.
With continuous efforts and strengthened accountability mechanisms, Osun State is charting a path toward a more inclusive and equitable society. The collective voices at the event made one thing clear:
Disability rights are human rights, and the time for full implementation is NOW.
