The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has said that 15 out of the 18 political parties’ constitutions in Nigeria have no constitutional provision for electing persons with disabilities (PWDs) into the party hierarchy.
The statement was contained in a press release by the Executive Director, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), David O. Anyaele.
The statement was made to commend the newly elected seven (7) PWDs to the National Working Committee of the APC party.
Mr Anyaele noted that the act demonstrates that the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the party’s hierarchy and affairs is profitable if we must experience inclusive good governance in Nigeria.
“This is a critical example of how to implement section 30 of the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 by a political party.
“The section provides that persons with disabilities shall be fully encouraged to participate in politics and public life.
“Government shall actively promote an environment in which persons with disabilities can effectively and fully participate in activities and administration of political parties,” he said.
My Anyaele called on the newly elected PWD leaders to take advantage of their positions to ensure that their party goes beyond electing PWDs party leaders to the appointment of PWDs as members of the Federal Executive Council and heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of Governments at all levels in Nigeria.
“As it is today, line MDAs of the Federal Government in Nigeria are struggling to implement the National Disability Act. This needs to change, he said”