Osun State: Pioneer in Disabilities Rights with New Law

 

In the realm of Nigeria's dynamic societal and legal landscape, Osun State stands tall as a symbol of progress, demolishing barriers and relentlessly advocating for the rightsof its citizens with disabilities. 

 

With the recent passage of the Disabilities Protection Law, Osun State has cemented its commitment to creating a more inclusive society, marking a historic milestone in Nigeria's fight against discrimination. 

Nigeria, like many nations, grapples with the challenge of ensuring the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. 

According to the World Health Organization, over 1.3 billion individuals worldwide live with some form of disability, representing 16% of the global population. Within Nigeria, the United Nations Population Fund estimates that 32 million people live with disabilities, facing numerous obstacles in their daily lives. 

Despite these staggering figures, progress towards inclusive legislation has been slow. 

However, after nearly two decades of deliberation and advocacy, Nigeria's Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018 finally saw the light of day. Signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari, this landmark legislation criminalizes discrimination against persons with disabilities, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive society.

Recently, during a solidarity visit to  National Chairman, All progressives Party,Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje ,the APC National Leader for Persons with disabilities, Hon Tolu Bankole, called the domestication of the Act across more states. 

He said, “Six years after the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, only 13 states have demonstrated measures to domesticate the Act. They include Lagos, Anambra, Ekiti, Ondo, Plateau, Bauchi, Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Kogi, Niger, Kwara and the FCT.”

“We call on the state governments who are yet to domesticate fully the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, to do so without further delay and establish Disability Commission as enshrined in the Act. This is important because failure in this regard is tacit endorsement of discrimination and other harmful practices against Persons With Disabilities” he emphasized. 

Osun State's Journey:

Against this backdrop of national progress, Osun State has emerged as a trailblazer in the fight against discrimination. 

Becoming the 14th state in Nigeria to pass the Disabilities Protection Law, Osun State has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of its citizens with disabilities. 

The bill was announced on the floor of the State Assembly on 26 of July 2023.

The bill was approved by the House during a plenary session chaired by Speaker Hon. Adewale Egbedun.

Egbedun said the bill will be sent to the Governor for assent.

Expressing Gratitude to the Assembly, The Chairman of Joint Association of Persons with Disabilities, Stephen Oluwafemi commended the Members of the Assembly for their hard work and dedication to ensuring that the barriers of discrimination are lowered towards the special needs residents.

he said “My joy can’t be contained today, this is the greatest news I have had in long time, finally we, residents with special needs are now included into the administration of the Government

“We can now enjoy basic social amenities from the Government and individuals without feeling intimidated”, he exclaimed.

While waiting for the Governor’s assent on the proposed law, the Chairman appreciated the sponsor of the Bill, Hon Adewunmi Adeyemi for his dedication and thoroughness to pursue the Bill to become a law.

For years, individuals with disabilities in Osun State have faced systemic barriers and societal prejudice, hindering their access to essential services and opportunities. However, with the enactment of the Disabilities Protection Law, a new chapter of empowerment and inclusion has begun.

Impact of the Disabilities Protection Law:

The Disabilities Protection Law is more than just a legal document—it symbolizes recognition, dignity, and hope for the community of persons with disabilities in Osun State. 

By dismantling barriers and ensuring equal rights and opportunities, the law paves the way for a more inclusive society where everyone can fully participate and contribute. Key provisions of the law include the prohibition of discrimination in all spheres of life, from employment to education, healthcare, transportation, and public services. 

Additionally, the law mandates the implementation of reasonable accommodations to ensure full participation for persons with disabilities, addressing physical, communication, and attitudinal barriers. 

Furthermore, the Disabilities Protection Law establishes mechanisms for enforcement and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities, empowering government agencies, civil society organizations, and individuals to advocate for their rights and hold violators accountable.

As Osun State embarks on this transformative journey towards inclusivity, it sends a powerful message of hope and solidarity to persons with disabilities across the state. 

Osun State's commitment to inclusive legislation serves as a shining example for the nation, inspiring progress and transformation in the fight against discrimination.

The Osun Disabilities Prohibition bill will provide persons with disabilities access to health, education, employment and other social amenities that bring about inclusion

The signs and symptoms of gender-based violence can vary depending on the type and severity of the violence. Here are some common signs and symptoms:

1. Physical signs: Unexplained injuries, bruises, broken bones, burns, frequent visits to healthcare providers, visible signs of sexual assault.

2. Emotional and psychological signs: Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, mood swings, changes in behavior, withdrawal from social activities, increased fear or suspicion, suicidal thoughts or attempts.

3. Sexual and reproductive signs: Genital injuries, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), unwanted pregnancies, miscarriages, difficulty in sexual and reproductive health, forced abortions.

4. Behavioral signs: Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and hygiene, substance abuse, self-harm, suicidal behaviors, engaging in risky behaviors, isolation from friends and family.

5. Psychological signs: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, hypervigilance, avoidance of triggers, dissociation, memory loss.

6. Social signs: Isolation or withdrawal from social activities, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, changes in relationships with family and friends, impaired ability to trust others, difficulty in maintaining employment or education.

7. Financial signs: Control of finances by the abuser, economic abuse, restriction on employment or education opportunities, forced dependence on the abuser.

8. Cultural and social signs: Forced marriages, honor-based violence, female genital mutilation, child marriage, dowry-related violence, restrictive cultural practices.

It is important to note that not all individuals will display all these signs, and the presence of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that someone is experiencing gender-based violence. If you suspect someone is a victim of gender-based violence, it is crucial to approach the situation sensitively and provide support. Encouraging them to seek help from professionals or helplines is essential.

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