In a landmark workshop held in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) have called for the creation of special courts dedicated to handling disability-related cases. The Workshop organized by the Anambra State Disability Rights Commission (ASDRC), with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Program (RoLAC), the workshop underscored the growing need for a judicial system that is more inclusive and responsive to the unique challenges faced by PWDs in the state.
The call for special courts follows a broader push to ensure that PWDs have equal access to justice in Nigeria. Despite laws and policies designed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, many still experience significant hurdles when attempting to navigate the justice system. From inaccessible court facilities to systemic delays and a lack of understanding of disability-related issues, PWDs in Anambra are often left feeling marginalized when seeking legal redress.
Participants at the workshop expressed frustration over the existing barriers within the state’s legal system. “The rights of persons with disabilities are enshrined in various laws, but the reality is that we are still facing discrimination and a lack of understanding in the justice system. We need courts that will not only hear our cases but understand our needs and challenges,” said one attendee, a prominent disability rights advocate.
The Call for Specialized Courts Gains Momentum
The push for the establishment of special courts has gained significant momentum as PWDs continue to advocate for their rights. Many see the creation of disability-focused courts as a necessary solution to ensure that cases involving PWDs are handled with the sensitivity and urgency they deserve.
Specialized courts, the PWD community argues, would be designed to offer better accessibility—providing ramps, accessible seating, sign language interpreters, and other necessary accommodations. Moreover, they would employ judges, lawyers, and court officials who are trained to understand the nuances of disability-related cases, from issues of discrimination to accessibility.
In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Disability Rights Commission, Mrs. Chikaodi Eze, highlighted the urgent need for reforms in the justice system. “Persons with disabilities face unique challenges when it comes to accessing justice. From transportation issues to the lack of interpreters for the hearing impaired, there are many ways the current system fails our community. A special court will ensure that we get the justice we deserve without further marginalization.”
Barriers to Justice for PWDs in Anambra State
The challenges PWDs face in the justice system are multi-faceted. For individuals with mobility impairments, physical barriers such as a lack of ramps, elevators, and accessible courtrooms can make attending hearings nearly impossible. For those with hearing or visual impairments, the absence of interpreters, Braille documents, or assistive technologies often results in a lack of meaningful participation in court proceedings.
Additionally, many PWDs report facing discrimination or a lack of understanding from court staff and officials, further compounding their difficulties. These obstacles lead to delays in justice and, in some cases, an inability to pursue legal remedies at all.
At the workshop, one participant shared a personal story of how the lack of accommodations in court hindered his ability to pursue a case related to employment discrimination. “I went to court hoping to fight for my rights, but when I arrived, there were no ramps, and no one was there to assist me. After several failed attempts to access the courtroom, I gave up. It was a humiliating experience,” he said.
A Step Towards Greater Inclusivity
The resolution reached at the workshop underscored the need for swift action. Participants agreed that the establishment of special courts for disability-related cases would not only improve access to justice but also send a powerful message that Anambra State is committed to upholding the rights of all its citizens, regardless of their physical or mental abilities.
Such courts would also foster greater inclusivity, as they would serve as a model for other states in Nigeria, demonstrating that the justice system can be made accessible to everyone. As advocacy groups and civil society organizations rally behind the proposal, pressure is mounting on the government to take concrete steps toward the establishment of these specialized courts.
“The creation of these courts is not just about providing legal services—it’s about recognizing the humanity and dignity of persons with disabilities. We want a system that protects our rights and treats us with respect,” said another workshop participant.
A Call to Action
Advocates and participants at the workshop called on the Anambra State government and relevant judicial authorities to prioritize the creation of special courts for PWDs. They argued that such a move would help address the current gaps in the justice system and provide PWDs with the legal protection they need to defend their rights effectively.
“The time to act is now. We cannot continue to ignore the voices of persons with disabilities. We deserve the same access to justice as everyone else,” stated Mrs. Eze, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to pushing for these reforms.
As the call for special courts for PWDs continues to gain traction, it is clear that the disability community in Anambra State is ready to fight for a more inclusive justice system—one that ensures no one is left behind.
Looking Ahead
The next steps for advocates will involve continued engagement with government officials, lawmakers, and civil society organizations to turn the proposal into a reality. While the journey towards the creation of specialized courts may be long, the determination of the PWD community in Anambra State is unwavering.
As one participant aptly put it, “We are not asking for charity; we are demanding our rights. We will keep pushing until our voices are heard, and we see the change we need.”
In the coming months, all eyes will be on Anambra State to see whether it will lead the way in disability-inclusive justice by establishing these much-needed courts. For PWDs, this is more than a legal issue—it’s a fight for dignity, equality, and justice.
