By: Vitalis Ugoh, Calabar.
The Deputy governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, recently received in audience persons living with disabilities in his office.
The group is seeking for an inclusion in the distribution of political appointment within the 18 local government area of Cross state.
Speaking on behalf of the group Dr. Job Napoleon highlighted the neglect they have faced despite the existence of laws protecting their rights.
Be used the opportunity to While congratulate the Deputy governor on the APC’s victory in the last election.
He emphasized the group’s visibility and hard work throughout the state during the elections.
Napoleon appealed to the state government not to neglect, marginalized or do anything that could stigmatise his members henceforth.
We need to be integrated into the system just like women, who now benefit from the 35% affirmative action.
He commended the current administration for its compassionate approach and acknowledged the Deputy governor as a voice for persons living with disabilities.
Napoleon called for government’s attention to the National Disability Act of 2022, which provides certain benefits for persons with disabilities.
He expressed optimism that the administration, led by Sen. Bassey Otu, would establish a Commission as stipulated in the State Disability Law No. 11 of 2021 to address our case.
However, he assured the group’s support in the upcoming elections while distancing himself from another group.
Earlier, the State Chairman of the group and member of the State Special Leader of the APC, Hon. Livinus Ebingha, had expressed gratitude to the Deputy governor for his accessibility and for accommodating them despite their short notice.
In response, Rt. Hon. Odey assured them that the state would accommodate everyone irrespective of their situation.
He emphasized that the time for politicking had passed, and now was the time for governance, where all individuals must be carried along.
Odey encouraged the group to submit their own list, promising to present it to the governor for consideration when it was time for appointments.
