Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities of Nigeria, AIDDN, has officially established the Lagos State Chapter of the association, conducting its first inclusive, free, fair and credible election.
The election, which demonstrated inclusivity, has three of the eight offices allocated to the children at no charge, in order to involve children in the decision-making process in the state.
The National President of AIDDN, Mrs Omotola, stated that the association represents children and adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This is why the election was inclusive. She mentioned that although it’s not written in the constitution, it will be included in the amended constitution.
While congratulating the elected executives, she shared her excitement that Lagos State is the first to have its chapter inaugurated, encouraging unity and cooperation among the NGO, state government, philanthropists, and local government councils to promote a better quality of life for children and adults with IDD.
She announced that the Ogun State Chapter of the association, which is currently operating in an acting capacity, will be inaugurated next, and other states, such as Kwara State, will follow.
Announcing the results, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee of the AIDDN, Elder Fashola F. Ipaye, stated that Mrs Victoria Olufunmilayo Abimbola from Ikorodu won the poll with 33 votes out of the total votes cast, while Mrs Omolabake Taibat Adeniji from Agege came second with six votes.
Ipaye stated that Umoru Erimiose Dorathy from Kosofe Zone received 22 votes to become the first vice chairman of the association, while Dare Adelaja Ezekiel from Agege secured 18 votes.
In other positions, Mrs Joy Matilda Ughonu from Ibeju-Lekki was voted as the general secretary; Wemimo Akinwunmi from Ajegunle emerged as the treasurer; Grace Idowu Akinsanya from Ikorodu was voted as the public relations officer (P.R.O); while Tessy Mfon Nku from Kosofe won the assistant general secretary seat; Mrs Bolanle Keshinro from Agege emerged as the financial secretary; Daniel Omotayo Akinjisola from Ikorodu as the Chief whip/provost and Abiola Victoria Timilehin from Ikorodu as the welfare secretary, all unopposed.
While delivering her acceptance speech, Abimbola pledged to serve with integrity, transparency, and unwavering focus on the shared vision of the association.
“My commitment is unwavering, together we strive for a future where inclusivity is the reality and where people with IDD are empowered to bridge their full potential and their rights are recognised, protected and celebrated,” she said.
She hinted that the association should expect improvement in the lives of the children as they work together.
“I am confident that with unity, compassion and resilience, we can overcome the challenges before us. We will improve access to education and health services, and create more opportunities for meaningful participation and integration in society. But this journey is a collective work, so your ideas, voices, and contributions are invaluable.”
Abimbola urged state governments, individuals, donors, and philanthropists to help the association with health initiatives, particularly LASODA, to enhance the health of children and adults with IDD.
“I’m calling on LASODA to be an intermediary between AIDDN and the Lagos State government to reopen the special school that was shut down along Ketu mile 12 axis for us so that our children can attend full therapy they need to get over their challenges,” she pleaded.
She also encouraged members to keep supporting each other to innovate and advocate tirelessly for the rights and dignity of people with IDD.
While expressing her excitement, Umoru Erimiose Dorathy, a young elected female vice chairperson who is physically challenged, shared her vision for making positive changes in the community.
“I feel excited, I want to make people with IDD be seen and not in the shadow, I know that there are some challenges, but we are going to overcome them,” she expressed.
The historical event brought together major stakeholders from different zones, the BOT Chairman, Dr. (Mrs.) Ogechi Nwokedi; representative from Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, LASODA, Honourable Kilani; representatives from JONAPWD, Mr. Babatope Oloruntoba; head of South-west, Coordinator Ogun State chapter of the association, Mrs. Vivian Abiodun; security agency, media and other disability clusters heads to witness the event.