The Gombe State House of Assembly has passed a bill to establish a state disability commission aimed at protecting the rights of people with disabilities (PWDs) and promoting their equal participation in society.
The bill, sponsored by lawmaker Shuaibu Haruna, is seen as a critical step toward ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for all residents.
The assembly’s passage of the bill followed the adoption of a report from the House Committee on Women Affairs, Social Development, Special Duties, and Inter-Governmental Affairs, presented at the Committee of the Whole.
Gabriel Galadima Fushison, chairman of the committee and representative of Kaltungo West, noted that the bill was a private member’s initiative, refined to meet the state’s needs.
The committee organized a public hearing to gather input from key stakeholders, including the attorney-general and commissioner for justice, the commissioner of police, civil society organizations, and professional groups such as the Nigerian Bar Association, International Federation of Women Lawyers, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists.
Their contributions led to amendments in 23 sections, enhancing the bill’s provisions.
Expressing his commitment to inclusivity, Shuaibu Haruna said, “This bill is a step toward creating a society where PWDs can actively participate in governance and access equal opportunities, including the right to vote and be voted for.”
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