Sokoto State Government has dissolved the Executive Committee of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Sokoto State chapter, following the expiration of its tenure on January 15, 2026.
This move aims to strengthen accountability, inclusion, and democratic governance within disability advocacy structures.
The dissolution, which takes immediate effect, was approved by the Honourable Special Adviser to the Governor on Disability Matters, Hon. Umar Mohammed Masarin Gobir.
Government officials say the action is designed to ensure institutional continuity while paving the way for a transparent transition to a newly elected leadership.
To manage the association’s affairs during the transition period, the state government has constituted a Caretaker Committee with a six-month mandate.
The committee is tasked with stabilizing the organization, protecting the interests of persons with disabilities, and organizing credible elections for a substantive Executive Committee in line with national best practices.
According to the government, the intervention underscores Sokoto State’s commitment to inclusive governance and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, aligning with national disability policies and Nigeria’s obligations under international conventions.
Members of the Caretaker Committee are drawn from across the disability community to ensure broad representation, gender balance, and youth inclusion.
They are expected to work closely with relevant stakeholders to deepen advocacy, promote unity, and strengthen the voice of persons with disabilities at both state and national levels.
The Caretaker Committee is chaired by Comrade Abubakar Muazu, with Comrade Aminu Kasim serving as Vice Chairman.
Saidu Usman Acida was appointed Secretary, while Saidu Suleiman Muhammed will serve as Organizing Secretary.
Other members include Altine Mai Kanga as Treasurer; Abubakar Yahaya as Public Relations Officer I; Bashiru Maidabo as Public Relations Officer II; Ummu Bello as Women Leader; Kasimu Dan Malam as Youth Leader; and Hassan Umar as Auditor.
Government officials expressed confidence that the caretaker leadership would uphold the values of transparency, participation, and equity while laying a solid foundation for the emergence of a democratically elected executive that reflects the aspirations of persons with disabilities in Sokoto State.
