People living with disabilities in Enugu State, Tuesday, called on the state government to operationalise the state Disabilities Law 2023 which was signed by former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
The plea was made at Obukpa, Nsukka LGA, by participants at the ongoing training of persons with disabilities aimed at promoting gender justice, self-esteem and rights of disabled persons. The event is being organised by Community Life support, an NGO.
The President of the Physically Challenged Persons, Obukpa, Mr Paul Ezema, said the implementation of the law in the state would help persons with disabilities to attain their potential.
In his words, “The disability Act has been domesticated in Enugu State, but yet to be implemented. We appeal to Gov Peter Mbah to implement the law. This is the first time we are having this type of training from an NGO. It is very encouraging. We learnt that deformity is not physical, but a lack of information.”
Ifeanyi Philomena Ugwueze, a resource person, advised people with disabilities not to limit their capacities. She said, “I am blind, but I own a company called Deep Love Vision Concept, which manufactures perfumes, soaps, detergents, and also trains prospective entrepreneurs.
“I am also a master’s student of the University of Nigeria. I was trained by a Yoruba man whom I never knew before.
“We met when I was undergoing skills acquisition training. God is perfect, and we are His perfect creation. Join the national bodies of disabled people to be informed.”
A participant, Obi Ajulu, said, “The sensitisation is addressing our core challenges through rebuilding our mindset. I thank the organisers.”
The Programme Manager for CLP, Celine Osukwu, said, “We let them know that there are laws in Nigeria that protect them.
“These laws are the instruments to fight for their rights. We are happy because of the enactment of the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 which led to the establishment of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) to champion the welfare of people with disabilities.
“We are disappointed that as of 2018, there was a window period where it was stipulated that within five years, all the public places in the country should be accessible to PDWs.
“But in reality, we are not getting it. Gov Mbah promised that in 2025, the law would be functional in the state.”
Prof Simon Eze is the CLP Coordinator in Enugu State. He said, “CLP is changing various negative socio-cultural beliefs, like prohibiting women from inheriting their parents’ property. CLP stands for equality and fairness. Some of the participants are beginning to understand what is being preached.”
