Disability Rights in Focus: HAPI and JONAPWD Call for Executive Assent to Benue Disability Rights Bill

HAPI and JONAPWD Call for Executive Assent to Benue Disability Rights Bill

On Monday, 5 August 2025, Hope Alive for Possibilities Initiative (HAPI), in collaboration with the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Benue State Chapter, convened a high-level press briefing in Makurdi to sustain momentum following the passage of the Benue State Disability Rights Bill by the State House of Assembly.

Held at the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD), the briefing brought together civil society organisations, representatives of the disability community, key government ministries and agencies, development partners, and the media. The gathering created a unified space for reflection, recognition, and renewed advocacy — with one clear message: the bill must now be signed into law.

A Defining Moment for Disability Rights in Benue State

In her remarks, Aver Akighir, Executive Director of HAPI, described the bill’s passage as “a defining moment in the struggle for legal recognition, dignity, and full inclusion of persons with disabilities in Benue State.” She called on His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Benue State, to urgently assent to the bill, noting that executive assent would not only fulfil a constitutional responsibility but also demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusive governance and equal rights.

HAPI and JONAPWD Call for Executive Assent to Benue Disability Rights Bill

One Signature Away from Protection

Speaking on behalf of the disability community, Mr Onah Adeyi, Chairman of JONAPWD Benue State (represented by Ms Flora Ashide Lorhuna, Vice Chairperson), highlighted the long-standing exclusion of persons with disabilities from policy, development, and public service in Benue State.

With the bill now passed by the legislature, he noted, the Governor’s signature stands between continued exclusion and legal protection. Executive assent would guarantee legal backing for the rights, inclusion, and social protection of over 15% of Benue State’s population living with disabilities.

Government Reassurance and Collective Commitment

Also addressing the press, Mr Bemshima Anshe, Personal Assistant to the Governor on People with Disabilities and Equal Opportunities, assured stakeholders that Governor Hyacinth Alia would assent to the bill promptly. He further commended the executive, legislative, and civil society actors for their collaborative efforts in advancing the bill.

The briefing also served to:

• Commend the Benue State House of Assembly for demonstrating legislative leadership

• Acknowledge the sustained advocacy of civil society organisations and development partners

• Reaffirm collective commitment to effective implementation once the bill is signed into law

From Law to Lived Reality

HAPI and JONAPWD expressed sincere appreciation to the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) for its continued support in facilitating dialogue between government institutions and civil society actors.

As Benue State awaits executive assent, HAPI remains committed to ensuring that disability rights move from paper to practice — through partnership, accountability, and sustained advocacy.

This advocacy effort is supported by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF).