For inclusions and recognition across the state, the Rivers State chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), has raised serious concerns, noting that since the declaration of emergency rule in the state, PWDs have been neglected.
Speaking at a roundtable event organised by TAF Africa in Port Harcourt, members of the disability community said the absence of a democratic government has left them without representation or support.
“We were preparing for elections under the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, working with the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation,” a member of the group said. “But the moment the state of emergency was declared, everything stopped. We’ve had no progress, no access, no engagement. “
They also noted that their leadership elections remain on hold because the ministry is unavailable to supervise the process.
Founder and CEO of TAF Africa, Jake Epelle, criticised the interim government for ignoring disability issues. He said the sole administrator has not addressed or acknowledged the rights of persons with disabilities since taking office.
“It is shocking that in this day and age, a whole administration can run without mentioning disability inclusion” Epelle said. “The least the sole administrator can do is appoint a special adviser on disability matters and begin a conversation with the community.
He also called for transparency in the use of public funds, asking the administrator to publicly disclose how much funding has been received from the federal government and how it is being spent.
Read Also: TCN begins community engagement to reduce power lines vandalism in Rivers State
A former Rivers chairman of JONAPWD, Kie Obomanu, urged the government to begin direct engagement with the disability community.
Participants who were present at the meeting identified three urgent needs; improved access to healthcare, education, and an inclusive environment.
They called on the state administration to act quickly, engage with the disability community, and restore democratic governance to ensure fair representation and inclusion.
President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers on 18 March following a political crisis between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
After his declaration which was supported by the Senate and House of Representatives, Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy, and all lawmakers, and appointed a sole administrator to run the state for six months — a decision that remains controversial.
