Agboje Chuks
What seems to be challenge for people living with disabilities in Delta State has been resolved as a Bill that protect and prohibit the discrimination against people living with disabilities has been passed by the Delta State house of Assembly
The Bill which has the capacity to change lives, create and sustain livelihood, enhance access, promote inclusion and eliminate discrimination of people living with disabilities has been passed by the Delta State house of Assemble
Recall that this is the second private member Bill that has been passed, presented and sponsored by Marilyn Okowa Daramola, the Ika North East first female youth representative in the Delta State House of Assembly.
This is coming at a time where voices of people living with disabilities had been drowned, and many discriminated from participating in leadership and other corporal activities in the State
The Bill which is narrowed to not only protect people Living with Disabilities from any form of discrimination, but will create equal opportunities in all aspects of living, and amplify their voices through the establishment of the Delta State Commission for Persons with Disability and Related Matters.
This is a milestone and a legacy that should be nurtured for duplication on the national stage regarding the prohibition of discrimination against those living with disabilities,
Marilyn who is a legislator of the new order has demonstrated her worth through her legislative representation achieving milestone, and giving support to her Constituents and Delta State citizens at large
Her disposition and carriage shows she Is from a humble and unquestionable pedigree and has carved a niche for herself as a selfless political and community leader, generous and easily accessible to everyone who seek access to her
Her passion to help the downtrodden was the reason she answered the clarion call to serve as well lend her voice to the voiceless.
This was why she prioritized her service to helping the poor and underprivileged in the society, through her first Bill which will protect those who are vulnerable through the prohibition of discrimination against people living with disabilities and the establishment of the commission to enforce it.
The Bill will provide a legal framework to ensure equal rights, protection against discrimination, and guarantee accessibility to various services and opportunities.
The commission will not only serve as a help desk for people living with disabilities, receiving complaints on related matters but will contribute to the development and implementation of policies that will address the unique challenges faced on daily basis
This includes advocating for inclusive education, accessible infrastructure, and equal employment opportunities.
The commission will also play a crucial role in monitoring the implementation of disability-related policies and ensuring compliance. It will take action against discrimination and work to enforce legal protections for individuals with disabilities.
The commission will promote knowledge and acceptance of handicap concerns in the larger community by conducting awareness campaigns and courses of study. This will help to reduce stigma and promote inclusivity.
It will engage in research activities to gather data on disability-related issues, providing valuable insights for evidence-based policymaking. This research will inform strategies to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
The bill and establishment of a commission doesn’t only mean to address issues but will provide legal support and advice to individuals with disabilities who face discrimination or encounter barriers in accessing their rights. This legal assistance will protect the rights of individuals and hold accountable those who violate them.
