A coalition of persons with disabilities in Ogun State has made a passionate appeal to Governor Dapo Abiodun to urgently implement the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, in the state.
The appeal was made by Mr. Abdulwahab Matepo, Interim National President of the Spinal Cord Injuries Association of Nigeria, and Ms. Oluwatomisin Olatayo, a member of the Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB), during an appearance on Your Image, a public relations programme aired on Ogun State Television (OGTV).
Speaking on the topic “Disability Law: Progress, Challenges and the Way Forward,” the advocates lamented the continued exclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Ogun from social, economic, and infrastructural development due to the state’s failure to domesticate the federal disability law.
They described their personal experiences of discrimination and inaccessibility to basic public amenities, employment opportunities, education, and healthcare, noting that the non-implementation of the law has further entrenched systemic inequality against people living with disabilities.
Matepo and Olatayo noted that while other states in the South-West have domesticated the Act, Ogun remains the only one yet to take the step, a development they described as “disheartening and a denial of justice.”
“We acknowledge the efforts of some government officials, but the time has come for Governor Abiodun to take a bold step. The domestication and implementation of the law will not only promote inclusivity but will also enable persons with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to the growth of Ogun State,” they said.
They stressed the importance of collaboration, calling on individuals, corporate bodies, NGOs, and international partners to support the cause, insisting that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of addressing the challenges faced by PWDs.
The duo also expressed appreciation to philanthropic organisations, religious bodies, and well-meaning Nigerians who have continued to support the community. However, they urged for more material, technical, and financial support to help persons with disabilities reach their full potential.
“We are not asking for charity; we are demanding our rights. With the right policies and support, persons with disabilities can be productive citizens. Many of us possess hidden talents and can contribute immensely if given the opportunity,” Matepo added.
They reaffirmed the group’s readiness to work with the Ogun State Government to ensure the full implementation of the law, calling it a critical step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
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