News Editor
By David Odama
Coalition of Professional People with Disabilities, PWDs, has accused President Bola Tinubu of insensitivity and discrimination against them in his recent appointments especially to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
They argued that the appointments neglect the voices and needs of PWDs, particularly in light of their previous call for the inclusion of a female candidate in the ministry.
The group’s representative and convener of the coalition, Barrister Ismaila Sani Dabai, in a statement issued on Wednesday, expressed deep disappointment over the selection of two male candidates from the same state for key leadership roles, stating that such decisions negate and undermine the principles of inclusivity and equity essential for effective governance.
“Being disabled is not equal to being voiceless, base on this we demand recognition and respect in view of our contributions to society.
“We are citizens of this country, created by God just like everyone else. Our disabilities do not diminish our worth or our ability to contribute meaningfully to discussions that affect our lives and communities.
“Our earlier request for the appointment of a qualified female leader in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs was not just a plea for gender representation; it was a call for someone who understands the unique challenges faced by PLWDs, particularly women with disabilities.
“As a community, we believe that the humanitarian sector requires diverse leadership to effectively address the complexities of social issues, especially those impacting vulnerable populations, including PLWDs. Female leaders often bring perspectives and experiences that can lead to more comprehensive and empathetic responses to humanitarian needs.
“We therefore urged President Tinubu to reconsider his appointments and to ensure that the appointment reflect the diversity of Nigeria’s population.
“It is crucial for leaders in the Humanitarian Ministry to understand the intricacies of our challenges, because women, especially those who are disabled, can offer invaluable insights into creating policies and programs that truly serve all Nigerians.
“We ask President Tinubu to listen to us, to include us, and to ensure that his appointments reflect the richness of our nation’s diversity. It is time for the government to stand by its commitment to inclusion and equality for all, including those of us with disabilities,” Ismaila stressed.
