The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has urged persons with disabilities (PWDs) not to participate in the upcoming protest organised by some individuals over harship in the country.
The commission made the call in a press statement signed and issued to journalists on Wednesday by its head of new media, Saleh Faruq Gagarawa.
The statement said that the commission’s executive secretary, Dr James Lalu, cautioned PWDs regarding the upcoming protest during the flag-off ceremony of a medical outreach at the Karmajiji Disability Colony in Abuja.
Dr Lalu described the slogan of the protest, “End Bad Governance,” as naive and baseless. He emphasised that the current administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, was not yet two years into its tenure and should be given more time to implement its programmes and policies.
It further stated that the NCPWD boss outlined the numerous benefits that persons with disabilities will gain from the 2024 budget, highlighting significant changes and progress anticipated across the country. He appealed to persons with disabilities nationwide to exercise patience and trust in the administration’s commitment to their welfare.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is dedicated to improving the lives of persons with disabilities. The 2024 budget includes substantial allocations for renovating all rehabilitation and skills acquisition centres for persons with disabilities across Nigeria,” he added.
Responding to Dr Lalu’s call, Alh Suleiman Muhammed, Emir of Persons with Disabilities in Karmajiji Colony in Abuja, assured that they would heed the executive secretary’s advice. He committed to directing all colony members to abstain from participating in any protest, reiterating their trust in the government’s plans and promises.
“The NCPWD remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities and looks forward to continued collaboration with the government to ensure a better future for all,” the statement concluded.
