By Frank Edima
Members of Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), Cross River State Chapter, have lauded the Governor, Senator Ben Ayade for his strides to redeem the derogatory image of the State while calling on the government to also ensure the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of public life.
This was contained in a letter by the association addressed to the Governor dated January 22, 2016 signed by Ogar Inyang, Iquo Mkpang and Augusta Otu, Chairman, Assistant Secretary and Vice Chairman respectively and made available to CrossRiverWatch.
The association expressed worries that the government has raised several issues on how to meet the needs of women, widows, youths and others, with no affirmative policy statement as it concerns the disabled.
The letter stated that “…we are at a loss as we keep wondering why you excluded us in a process we consider very commendable. Although we considered our exclusion as an oversight, it is very worrisome that we have since written on three occasions, requesting to meet with you, knowing of course that we are part and parcel of this State, but our request is yet to be given due attention…”
The association ended by pleading for the following: employment, political appointments, mobility, secretariat, skills acquisition centers, monthly subvention, creation of desk offices, free education/scholarships, participation in sports, establishment of a state disability commission, advocacy/campaign against stigmatization, and sponsorship to meetings and conventions of the union.
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