The Benue State House of Assembly has expressed optimism that the domestication of the Disability Act will stop the discrimination, abuse and sexual exploitation of persons with disabilities in the state.
Speaker of the House, Aõndona Dajoh, who made this known during a roundtable discussion on the legislative process for the Disability Act in Benue State organised by the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) with support from NED, said they are committed to expediting action to ensure the speedy passage of the Act.
Represented by the deputy clerk of the house, David Ochapa, the speaker assured that the assembly would expedite the process for the welfare of People With Disabilities (PWDs).
In her welcome remarks, IFA executive director Grace Jerry said the engagement was intended to expedite the passage of the Benue State Disability Bill.
“Today, we are partners in a shared mission to create an inclusive society where Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are recognized, empowered, and protected under the law.
“This meeting marks an important step forward for disability rights in Benue State. We commend Governor Hyacinth Alia for taking the bold initiative to domesticate the Disability Bill and send it to the State House of Assembly. However, the journey to full inclusion does not end here; it begins with ensuring this bill becomes law and is implemented effectively.
“Benue State stands at a historic crossroads. As the last state in North Central Nigeria yet to domesticate the Disability Act, this roundtable presents an opportunity for us to make a decisive impact. By working with legislators, government officials, PWD advocates, and other stakeholders, we can position Benue State as a champion for inclusion and equality.
“Let us focus on actionable outcomes today. I encourage each of us to contribute ideas, ask questions, and propose solutions that will help accelerate the legislative process. Our collective efforts will ensure that Benue State emerges as a leader in advancing the rights and dignity of Persons with Disabilities.
“Thank you for your presence, commitment, and collaboration. Together, we will make history and create a future where no one is left behind. You are welcome once again, and let’s make today impactful”, Jerry stated.
In his remarks, personal assistant to Governor Hyacinth Alia on people with special needs said the governor was committed to running an all-inclusive government, and people with disability were not exempted.
“The governor has been attending to issues of people with disabilities. Rehabilitation homes have been rehabilitated. Even without the law, the governor is already giving attention to people with disabilities and has appointed one as Adviser”, Anshe said. He commended the state House of Assembly for being part of the meeting to ensure that the disability law is domesticated.
The roundtable also featured panel discussions on the steps taken so far by the State Assembly to implement the bill. The panellists were the majority leader, Saater Tiseer, represented by Daniel Gever; Cephas Dyako, chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation representing Konshisha constituency; Anyõr Mato, chairman of the House Standing Committee on Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, representing Kwande East constituency; Peter Uche, member representing Guma constituency and chairman of the Committee on Sustainable Development Goals and Donor Agencies.
The panellists assured that once the bill is taken to the assembly, it would simultaneously pass through the first and second readings.
Also speaking, programme manager Stephen Idoko appreciated the participants for their efforts so far, saying IFA is looking forward to more engagement next year. He solicited the participants, including media practitioners and stakeholders, to sustain the advocacy.
