Stakeholders, on Tuesday, advocated the establishment of Disability Rights Commission in Enugu State.
They made the appeal during at the one-day sensitization program on Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights for Women and Girls with Disabilities in Enugu State, organises by Voice of Disability Initiative, VDI.
The program, which is funded by AMPLIFYCHANGE, a UK-based organization, had in a attendance, members of the Enugu State Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD).
A statement issued after the event was signed by
Comrade Onyebuchi Mba, Chairman, JONAPWD, Enugu State Chapter and Catherine C. Edeh, ESQ, Executive Director, VDI.
The groups recalled that “Enugu State House of Assembly passed the Disability Rights bill into law on Tues 4th April, and it was assented to by the immediate past Governor on Thursday 18th May, 2023.
“This milestone legislation aims to eliminate discrimination, equalize opportunities, and establish the disability rights commission. However, the gazetting of the Law and the commission’s setup is still pending, hindering the full implementation of the law and realizing its benefits to the state.
“Today, July 30th, 2024, the Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI) meets with women and girls with disabilities, leaders of persons with disabilities, and other stakeholders to discuss the 2-Year Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights Project and potential aid grants for Enugu State.
“As we gather for this crucial meeting, we remind the Enugu State Government of the need to establish the Enugu State Disability Rights Commission, as provided by the 2023 Enugu State Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Law.”
They added that the commission was vital for the implementation of the law, mainstreaming policies, and promoting inclusive development projects.
“We passionately appeal to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, to constitute the board of the commission, ensuring a smooth kickoff.
“This will align Enugu State with over 22 states in Nigeria that have already established their disability rights commissions, promoting a right-based approach and sustainable development.
“The establishment of the commission will oversee the implementation of the Disability Rights Law, contribute to revenue generation, promote access to education and skills development, entrepreneurship, and business opportunities, reduce poverty and social welfare costs, increase access to healthcare, and attract foreign investment, donors, and partnerships.
“We beseech the Enugu State Government to establish the Disabil Rights Commission, ensuring that persons with disabilities can fully exercise their rights and participate in the development of our dear State,” they further stated.
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