The Ogoni Association of Persons Living with Disabilities has called on the Federal Government and the Ogoni Development Commission (ODC) to include its members in plans to resume oil production in Ogoniland.
The association made the demand during a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Monday, where it presented a five-point agenda to ensure that the rights and interests of persons living with disabilities are protected in the process.
It stressed that people living with disabilities must have a voice in decisions concerning oil production and the future development of Ogoniland.
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The association clarified that it was not against development or the lawful resumption of oil activities in the area. However, it warned against any process that sidelines persons with disabilities or exposes them to discrimination and injustice.
It maintained that decisions affecting the people of Ogoniland should not be taken without consulting all relevant groups, including persons living with disabilities.
According to the association, their participation in the decision-making process is necessary to protect their welfare, promote equal opportunities and ensure that they benefit from development initiatives.
It urged the ODC and the Federal Government to consider its five-point agenda as discussions on the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland continue.
The association’s position highlights the need for inclusive decision-making as stakeholders consider the future of oil production in the area.
Further details of the five-point agenda were not provided in the information released.
