Adebayo Adenrele
The Lawmaker representing Ekiti North (Ikole/Oye) Federal Constituency, Akintunde Rotimi has reiterated his commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs), as well as strengthening access and enforcement of existing disability laws.
Speaking with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, the lawmaker, who is also the Spokesman of the Green Chamber and Chairman, Ekiti State Paraathletics Association, emphasized that his legislative focus has always been on issues affecting vulnerable groups particularly PWDs, children, the aged and mothers.
He stated that he has sponsored over 30 bills, including a repeal and reenactment of the Prohibition of Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act, 2019.
According to him, the landmark law granted a five-year moratorium for public and private institutions to make their facilities accessible to PWDs.
Speaking on his empowerment programme tagged: ‘Provision of Prosthetic Limbs and Empowerment of People With Disabilities Across Ekiti North Federal Constituency, Ekiti State”, the Spokesman disclosed that the Initiative captured about 131 PWDs for prosthetic limbs and cash gifts.
He explained that the initiative, which began with a measurement camp, is at the fitting camp stage, where adjustments are made to ensure usability.
The legislator also commended the Governor of the State, Biodun Oyebanji, for upgrading special schools, increasing funding and employing an unprecedented number of PWDs in government, adding that under his administration, all new state buildings have complied with disability access requirements.
He added that similar program will also be held in Oye-Ekiti, where about 200 people are being trained and empowered, especially on issues around the disability laws.
His words, “As you know, everyone has different passions and focus. Mine has always been on issues that affect vulnerable people, persons with disabilities, children, the aged, mothers and this has been reflected in my constituency projects, bills and motions that I have championed.
“Currently, we have the Prohibition of Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act, 2019. That law gave a five-year moratorium beginning in 2019, meaning that by January 2024, all public buildings in Nigeria were expected to become compliant with disability access provisions.
“I also sponsored a repeal and reenactment bill because I identified areas in that law that could be improved. That bill has passed the second reading and is among over 30 bills I have personally sponsored.
“First, there is a need for sensitization. If people are not aware of the provisions of that Act, we cannot advance it. Sensitization must happen at local, state, and national levels.
“Second, there is a need for enforcement. We have many public buildings banks, eateries, places of worship and the law requires all of them to provide disability access from 2024”.
In her remarks, the Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Professor Olayemi Oyebanji, lauded the lawmaker for the initiative, saying he has demonstrated the spirit of love and affection towards persons with disabilities without any marginalization.
She reiterated the state government’s commitment to their welfare, stressing that the government of Biodun Oyebanji is poised to prioritize their needs so they don’t experience any pain.
