The Joint Clusters of Kano State Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), under the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) Kano State Chapter, has distanced itself from a recent protest and press conference reportedly organized by a group claiming to represent PWDs in the state.
In a statement signed by key representatives from various disability clusters, JONAPWD categorically denied any involvement in the protest. “We categorically distance ourselves from the press conference and the alleged sponsored protest organized by those individuals who claimed to represent persons living with disabilities. We were not aware of the protest, neither are we part of it,” the statement read.
The organization emphasized its commitment to addressing issues through dialogue with the Kano State Government rather than through protests. “Instead of staging protests, we chose to utilize the open channel of communication the Abba Kabir administration has provided to us where our complaints and concerns are directly and swiftly addressed by the government,” the statement added.
JONAPWD also acknowledged the government’s efforts in addressing their concerns, highlighting initiatives such as institutionalizing PWDs’ affairs under the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children, and Disabled. They also praised the provision of assistive devices, direct cash transfers, and support for events like World Disability Day 2024. “The Kano State Government has provided substantial support to persons with disabilities, including assistive devices and palliatives, as well as cash transfers of N20,000 to 2,000 members,” the statement noted.
Additionally, the group mentioned the distribution of palliatives, including food items and transportation fees, to PWDs across the state. “The Kano State Government has provided substantial support to persons with disabilities, including assistive devices and palliatives, as well as cash transfers of N20,000 to 2,000 members,” the statement reiterated.
While reiterating its support for the establishment of a disability commission, JONAPWD urged members and the general public to distance themselves from protests organized in the name of fighting for PWDs’ rights. “We recognize the positive impact of the government’s initiatives for persons with disabilities. We pray for a peaceful Kano State and Nigeria in general,” the statement concluded.
This statement comes amid a call from the Kano Civil Society Forum (KCSF) urging the Kano State Government to expedite action on the establishment of a dedicated Disability Commission.
The KCSF President, Mohammed Bello, made this call during a news conference on Wednesday evening, emphasizing that the commission is essential for safeguarding the rights and enhancing the well-being of people with disabilities in the state.
The statement was signed by leaders of various disability clusters, including Musa Muhammed Shaga, JONAPWD Chairman, and Abdulrahman Uba Daushe, Chairman of the Spinal Cord Injury Association, among others.
