On Tuesday, the Delta House of Assembly approved the State Disability Rights Bill, following the endorsement of the report from the House Joint Committee on Housing, Women Affairs/Girl Child Entrepreneurship, and Humanitarian Support Services, along with the Special Committee, during the plenary session in Asaba.
Committee Chairman Bridget Anyafulu (PDP-Osnimili South) presented the report, emphasizing that the bill aims to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination.
She highlighted its provisions ensuring equal rights for persons with disabilities to sue individuals, corporate entities, or government agencies for damages in case of fundamental rights violations. Additionally, the bill guarantees that individuals with disabilities won’t be subjected to medical or scientific experiments without their consent.
“Persons with disabilities shall have the right and necessary facilities to access the physical environment, public buildings and public places on an equal basis.
”They will also have the right to access/accessibility aids, special seats in vehicles, reservations at public parking lots, education, and equal work opportunities.
”It will also give persons with disabilities the opportunity to participate in politics and public life, among other things,” Ms Anyafulu said.
Ms Anyafula added that the bill’s passage would give the state the legal framework to establish a commission for people with disabilities.