Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) a Non Governmental Organization(NGO), has urged the National Assembly (NASS) to fast-track the process of reworking on the electoral act amendment bill, for the benefits of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the electoral processes.
Mr. David Anyaele, the Executive Director of the group made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the Third Annual Anniversary of the Nigeria Disability Rights Act.
The ceremony was organized by CCD with theme; 2023 General Elections and the Future of Nigerians with Disabilities, aimed at encouraging PWDs participation in electoral processes.
“As it is expected that the NASS will resume today after Christmas and New Year breaks, we wish to use this opportunity to appeal on the NASS to speedily make corrections on the bill for onward retransmission to Mr. President for assent
“The electoral bill which made strong provisions is widely believed would enhance access, participation of PWDs in the electoral process and election integrity in Nigeria.
“It is therefore important for the electoral bill to be fast-tracked as more than 61 per cent of 31 million voting population of PWDs are willing to take advantage of this improved bill when signed to law,” he said.
He urged Nigerians with disabilities that were 18 years and above to join politics and take advantage of every opportunity offered by political parties across the country.
Mr. Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, disclosed that the commission had put in place a “Vulnerable Group Department” to oversee Issues bordering on people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
Represented by Mr. Bobo Dahiru, Director of Vulnerable Groups, Ojukwu called on governments at all levels to also put in place strategies to enhance PWDs participation in governance across spheres.
“Other measures include accessible structures, advocacy, employment of PWDs, field visit to disability centers, research, partnership and collaboration with various stakeholders.
“We therefore call on the government to put appropriate measures in place for the full implementation of the disability act which will guarantee the rights of PWDs,” he said.
Mrs. Sharon Ikeazor, Minister of State for Environment, represented by Mrs. Bolanle Ajayi, Director Reforms Coordinator and Service Improvement.
She said that the ministry was working towards ensuring that there was a conducive environment and good health for all, especially PWDs.
“In fulfilling the mandates of the Ministry, we have developed strategies along the nine priority areas outlined by the current administration to build a thriving and sustainable economy.
“Enhance social inclusion, reduce poverty, enlarge agricultural output for food security and export, and other infrastructural development through taking targeted actions,” she said.
Mr. Clem Ikanade, Minister for State Budget and National Planning, said that it was unfortunate that PWDs in the country faced unacceptable stigma, discrimination and barriers to accessing basic social services.
The minister was represented by Mr. Phillip Ugbodaga, his Special Assistant at the event.
“In order to sustain and strengthen a disability inclusive recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, support for existing disability inclusion legislation in Nigeria is imperative.
“There is need for a renewed sense of optimism and call to higher responsibility to the commission for persons with disabilities to promote the implementation of the disability law,” he said.(NAN)
