Abuja, October 12, 2024 – In a decisive move towards safeguarding the welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Chief Ayuba Gufwan, has declared corruption as the greatest challenge undermining the livelihood of PWDs.
Gufwan made this assertion during a recent courtesy visit to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja, where he met with the EFCC Executive Chairman, Dr. Ola Olukoyede, and senior officials.
During his address, the NCPWD chief lauded the EFCC’s relentless efforts in curbing corruption, describing it as a “hydra-headed monster” that has infiltrated every sector of Nigerian society. Gufwan expressed concern that the negative impacts of corruption disproportionately affect PWDs, compounding their challenges and limiting their access to critical services.
Corruption’s Toll on PWDs
“Persons with disabilities are the most affected by corruption,” Gufwan stated emphatically. “Basic infrastructure, healthcare, education, and public services intended to improve the quality of life for PWDs are often lost to mismanagement and embezzlement. This leaves many PWDs stranded, without the necessary support they need to live dignified lives.”
He emphasized that the ripple effects of corruption create additional barriers, depriving PWDs of opportunities for inclusion and independence. Gufwan urged the EFCC to remain steadfast in its efforts to eradicate corruption and called for increased vigilance against financial misconduct that further marginalizes vulnerable groups.
Commitment to Partnership
In response, EFCC Chairman Dr. Ola Olukoyede welcomed the delegation from the NCPWD and expressed the agency’s commitment to supporting PWDs in the fight against corruption. He acknowledged the unique challenges facing PWDs and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the EFCC and the disability community.
“We are ready to partner with the NCPWD in tackling financial crimes that affect the well-being of persons with disabilities,” Olukoyede assured. “Our doors are always open, and we will respond promptly to any distress call from your office regarding corrupt practices that impact your community.”
To cement the partnership, the EFCC Chairman decorated Chief Ayuba Gufwan with an ambassadorial emblem and awarded him an honorary recognition from the Anti-Corruption Unit. The symbolic gesture underscores the EFCC’s dedication to inclusive governance and its willingness to collaborate with the NCPWD in safeguarding public funds meant for social welfare programs.
A Call for Accountability
Gufwan’s visit underscores the growing recognition that corruption affects society’s most vulnerable members disproportionately. His message aligns with broader efforts to promote transparency and ensure that funds earmarked for disability services are not diverted through fraud or mismanagement.
The partnership between the EFCC and NCPWD marks a new chapter in the fight against corruption, with both agencies pledging to strengthen accountability measures. The collaboration will also focus on raising public awareness about the adverse effects of corruption on marginalized groups and improving reporting channels for PWDs who encounter financial exploitation.
As the meeting concluded, both leaders expressed optimism about the impact of their joint efforts. “We will continue to fight corruption with all available resources to ensure a fair and just society for every Nigerian, especially persons with disabilities,” Gufwan affirmed.
This engagement highlights the need for a more inclusive anti-corruption strategy that prioritizes vulnerable populations, paving the way for a more equitable Nigeria.
By Mbanefo JohnMichaels Ikechukwu
Head of Information and Public Relations Unit, NCPWD
