From L/R: Dr. Duro Onatan, Mr. Isa Diso, late Prof. Jibril Isa Diso, Prof. Morris Iwu, the the INEC Chairman, Director of Voter Education, INEC, and Mr. David O Anyaele, founder Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) during JONAPWD advocacy to the Chairman of INEC in Abuja, February 2007
The disability community in Nigeria has been struck with a profound sense of loss following the passing of Prof. Jibril Isa Diso, an erudite scholar and indefatigable advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in the struggle for disability rights in Nigeria, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of activists.
I first met Prof. Diso in early 2007 during a pivotal moment in the history of disability advocacy in Nigeria. It was during the disability community’s first-ever advocacy encounter with the then Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Morris Iwu, in Abuja. This encounter was not just a meeting; it was a defining moment that set the stage for what would become a transformative relationship in the fight for the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
Prof. Diso’s contributions to the campaign for the passage of the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018 and the establishment of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities cannot be overstated. He was a constant presence at advocacy meetings, where his eloquence and intellectual prowess often left adversaries in awe. His ability to articulate the complexities of disability rights and development during engagements with stakeholders demonstrated unequivocally that disability issues are far beyond the purview of street beggars.
One of the most striking aspects of Prof. Diso’s advocacy was his ability to bring scholarly perspectives to the discourse on disability rights. His arguments were always well-reasoned and backed by rigorous academic research, which lent a powerful legitimacy to the cause. He was not merely an activist but a scholar who understood that the fight for disability rights required a deep and nuanced understanding of the socio-political landscape.
His advocacy was characterized by a deep sense of commitment and passion. Prof. Diso was known for his unwavering dedication to the cause. He hardly ever missed a meeting, and his presence was always felt. When he spoke, it was not just his words that resonated, but the conviction behind them. He had an uncanny ability to inspire those around him, motivating fellow activists and leaving a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.
Prof. Diso’s legacy is one of inspiration and empowerment. He was a beacon of hope for many disability rights activists in Nigeria who looked up to him as a mentor and role model. His work has paved the way for the next generation of activists, who will continue to build on the foundation he laid. His passing is a significant loss for the disability community in Kano State and Nigeria as a whole.
As we mourn the loss of Prof. Jibril Isa Diso, we must also celebrate his life and achievements. He leaves behind a rich legacy of advocacy, scholarship, and unwavering commitment to the cause of disability rights. His work has had a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals and has brought about meaningful change in the fight for equality and inclusion.
In these difficult times, we pray for God’s comfort and strength for his bereaved family and the entire disability community in Nigeria. May they find solace in the knowledge that Prof. Diso’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in our ongoing struggle for the rights of persons with disabilities. His life’s work stands as a testament to the power of advocacy and the enduring fight for justice and equality.
David O. Anyaele
Foremost Disability Rights Activist in Nigeria
Founder, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD)
Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on Persons with Disabilities
Honorable Chairman, Abia Commission for the Welfare of the Disabled Persons
