Adebayo Adenrele
In an intensified effort towards achieving inclusion in governance, the Justice Development and Peace Initiative, JDPI, Catholic Diocese of Ekiti State has partnered with the Association of People Living With Disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
This was revealed during a quarterly dialogue meeting involving JDPI, People living with Disability and Media representatives, held on Thursday at Catholic Bishops’ Quarters in Ado-Ekiti.
This initiative is part of an ongoing series of activities sponsored by the European Union through JDPI, aimed at promoting inclusivity and equal rights for all.
Speaking at the meeting, the Director of the Initiative, Rev. Father Emmanuel Akingbade said “JDPI wants to partner with PWD so that we can aid in the welfare of PWD, especially regarding their rights. We are reforming our policies to accommodate PWDs, you are not less human because of disability.”
Barr. Anthony Kay Adeusi, JDPI’s Legal Officer, reiterated the organization’s focus on outreach and partnership with PWDs. He affirmed that the dialogue is part of a broader initiative to reach out and collaborate with PWD communities, with the media playing a crucial role in amplifying their voices and advocacy efforts.
The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities, JONAPWD, in Ekiti State, Owolabi Kayode, acknowledged the support of JDPI and called for advocacy visit to governmental bodies in the state, especially Ministry of Education and Health, to seek the inclusion of PWDs in their employments exercise.
While hailing their synergy with JDPI, Owolabi said, “We appreciate JDPI for contacting us, it is a welcome development having people to support us in solving the problems of our members it is a welcome initiative.”