Persons with Disabilities in Ekiti State, Nigeria Demand Free Healthcare Services from Government

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Ekiti State, Nigeria, have urged the federal and state governments to provide them with free healthcare services and improved access to education. The demand was made during a validation process for the Citizens Agenda, organized by the Justice Development and Peace Initiative (JDPI) of the Catholic Diocese of Ekiti in partnership with Misereor of Germany.

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Akingbade, the Director of JDPI, called on the government to address the needs of PWDs and respect their constitutional rights. The PWDs, representing various clusters such as physically-challenged, visually-impaired, hearing-impaired, and albino, expressed the need for free medical care, free education in public schools, and a conducive environment without discrimination.

In addition to healthcare and education, the PWDs also highlighted the issue of accessibility to public premises and buildings as a concern that needs attention from the government. They praised the government for providing them with the opportunity to vote during elections but requested that they be allowed to contest elections as well.

Why this matters: The demands made by persons with disabilities in Ekiti State shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by PWDs in Nigeria and the need for government intervention to ensure their rights and well-being are protected. Addressing these issues is essential for creating a more inclusive and equitable society that values and supports all its citizens, regardless of their abilities.

The validation process of the Citizens Agenda served as a platform for the PWDs to voice their concerns and advocate for their rights. Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Akingbade stressed the importance of the government taking action to meet the needs of PWDs, stating, "The government should address the needs of persons with disabilities and respect their constitutional rights."

Key Takeaways

• PWDs in Ekiti, Nigeria seek free healthcare and improved access to education.
• PWDs demand the government address their needs and respect their rights.
• PWDs highlight issues of accessibility to public premises and buildings.
• PWDs praise the government for allowing them to vote but want to contest elections.
• Addressing PWDs' concerns is essential for creating an inclusive and equitable society.