The Osun State Government has been charged to ensure domestication of disability law in the state to cater for rights and interest of persons with disabilities.
The Osun State chapter of the National Association of Persons with Physical Disability threw the challenge on Friday.
In a statement by its Chairman, Alhaji Tadese Ismaheel Alani-Alanu, and General Secretary, Comrade Adetiba Lateef Olalekan, the body called on the government to take actions that would make life bearable for persons with disabilities in the state.
In the statement in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, to mark the international Wheelchair Day, Tadese and Adetiba appealed to the state government to expedite action towards domestication of disability law in the state.
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International Wheelchair Day, observed on March 1, celebrates the importance of wheelchairs in enhancing mobility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities worldwide.
Also, the event is to advocate passionately for enhanced global wheelchair access, striving for a more inclusive and accessible world.
It is also aimed at honouring and acknowledging the invaluable contributions of caregivers, organisations and communities that aid wheelchair users.
The NAPWPD leaders said: “Our demands include domestication of disability laws to safeguard the rights of wheelchair users, development of minimum accessibility standard code for the implementation of the law regarding access to the environment, modification and retrofitting of all public spaces and facilities to comply with relevant accessibility standard code and universal design.
“That government ensure adherence to building code/ minimum accessibility standard and that building control department of States do not approve new buildings that does not comply with the standard. Government and indeed the society makes necessary adjustments of the environmental conditions to allow for inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in the life of the community.”
NAPWPD noted that the International Wheelchair Day acts as a reminder of how important wheelchairs are to millions of individuals around the world.
Tadese and Adetiba said wheelchairs make a massive difference in a person’s ability to function in the world.
They lamented that not everyone who needs a wheelchair is able to get one, saying that there are tens of thousands of people around who need wheelchairs but could not afford it.
Founded in 2008, International Wheelchair Day was created to raise awareness about the significance of wheelchairs and their positive impact on the lives of individuals with mobility challenges.
International Wheelchair Day aims to celebrate, raise awareness, and advocate for improved accessibility and support for individuals who rely on wheelchairs worldwide.
Its primary focus is on promoting accessibility and inclusivity, highlighting the importance of making the world a more accessible place for all.
The day serves as a platform to celebrate the remarkable contributions of wheelchairs in empowering individuals and improving their quality of life.
It also acknowledges the pressing global need for wheelchairs, with millions of people worldwide requiring them but facing barriers to acquisition.
International Wheelchair Day recognises and honours the dedicated individuals and organisations that provide vital support and care to wheelchair users.
Over the years, this observance has grown significantly and is now celebrated in countries around the world.
The basic purpose of the International Wheelchair Day is to celebrate the profound impact of wheelchairs on individuals’ lives, fostering appreciation and empowerment and to raise global awareness about the critical importance of wheelchair accessibility and inclusivity in society as well as providing support and recognition for individuals facing mobility challenges, promoting dignity and independence.
