The Disability Rights Committee (DRIC) has formally handed over the affairs of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) to the Board Members of the newly inaugurated Commission for Persons with Disability at the Edo State Disability Commission Office, located at the former Deputy Governor’s office at Osadebe Avenue in Benin-City.
The event, attended by various stakeholders, marked a significant milestone in the State’s efforts to promote the rights and welfare of PWDs. DRIC was initially set up by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to oversee the needs of PWDs, and its dissolution paves the way for the Independent Commission to take over.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien who also functions as the DRIC Vice-Chairman, highlighted the Committee’s journey and future expectations, emphasizing the need for adequate representation.
On his part, Chairman of the Newly established Disability Commission, Mr. Theophilous Egbodion assured that his leadership will prioritize continuity, progress and transparency. To achieve this, he proposed quarterly Stakeholders’ meetings to facilitate brainstorming and collaboration.
Meanwhile, the State Coordinator of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC), Mrs. Uchenna Nwokedi, highlighted the need for cooperation with security officials to address parking violations and ramp access blockages in public buildings. She suggested a memo be raised to address these issues, particularly in the Secretariat Buildings.
In the same vein, the Executive Director of the Network of the Advancement of Persons with Visible Disabilities(NAPVID), Barr. Melody Omosah emphasized the importance of dissolving DRIC and immediately constituting a new Committee with broader representation, stressing that Persons with Disabilities should not only be beneficiaries but also active participants in decision-making processes.
Discussions also focused on critical issues, like; Ensuring broader representation in the new Commission, including a female Board Member, the urgent repair of elevators in public buildings and sensitizing building engineers on constructing ramps in all facilities.
The meeting underscores the commitment to promoting the rights and welfare of Persons with Disabilities.
Peace Osemwegie Media Officer, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development
