The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra Chapter, has called upon Governor Chukwuma Soludo to allocate 10 percent of the government’s subsidy palliatives to persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
Mr. Ugochukwu Okeke, the state Chairman of JONAPWD, made this request in a letter addressed to the Governor and shared with the media in Awka on Saturday.
Okeke emphasized that dedicating this percentage of the subsidy to palliatives would help PWDs meet their fundamental needs, including access to food, healthcare, and other essential support during these challenging times.
He pointed out that individuals with disabilities often encounter additional challenges in their daily lives and are disproportionately affected by the current economic hardship resulting from the removal of fuel subsidies. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that they are not left behind when it comes to accessing essential services and assistance.
“We appreciate the government’s commitment and intentions to distribute palliatives at the community and ward levels, to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal.
“We humbly propose that a minimum of 10 percent of the palliatives be specifically dedicated to PWDs within each ward and community to ensure their fair and equitable access to the palliatives.
“It is also important to make one of us (PWDs), a member of any committee that will be set up by the government to handle the distribution of the palliatives.
“This can significantly mitigate the adverse impacts faced by PWDs and uphold their rights to a healthy living as well as demonstrate our state commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and the principle of leaving no one behind,” he said.
Okeke urged Governor Soludo to seriously consider the 10 percent proposal and issue directives to community leaders to recognize the disability community as an additional special ward in the state. This step would help ensure that persons with disabilities receive the necessary support and assistance during these challenging times.
He also expressed appreciation to the Governor for his ongoing efforts to address the state’s challenges and the needs of its most vulnerable citizens.
