ASABA/Nigeria: Pursuant to the third reading and possible passage of the Delta State Protection of Persons Living with Disability Bill, the Delta State House of Assembly convened a public hearing on Monday to gather inputs from relevant stakeholders.
The public hearing, organized by the joint committee on Housing, Women Affairs, Humanitarian Support Services, and Girl Child Entrepreneurship, along with the Committee on Special Bills, was chaired by Hon. Bridget Anyafulu and Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, respectively.
Held at the State Assembly complex in Asaba, the event was attended by various government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including the State Ministry of Justice, Primary and Secondary Education, Women Affairs, and Community and Social Development.
A diverse group of persons with disabilities also attended the public hearing, representing various clusters of disabilities, such as the visually impaired, mentally unstable, and albinos, among others.
During his remarks, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi emphasized the importance of the public hearing in ensuring that the proposed law meets the needs and aspirations of the targeted groups in society. He assured stakeholders that their contributions would be carefully considered to expedite the bill’s passage.
“We have invited you as stakeholders for your contribution towards ensuring that this bill comes out as quickly as possible for the benefit of those concerned,” said Hon. Nwaobi. “You should be rest assured that we will continue to do our best to ensure that your desires are met.”
In her address, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu highlighted the significance of the public hearing and pledged that the committee would give careful consideration to all suggestions provided by stakeholders. She commended the high level of interest shown by stakeholders, noting that it would greatly help address the challenges faced by the physically challenged in society.
Comrade Ernest Igbuzor, the State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), praised the State House of Assembly for the ongoing bill on the Protection of Persons Living with Disability. He expressed confidence that when passed into law, the bill would significantly alleviate the challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
The joint committee is expected to submit its report at plenary for further legislative actions.
