Ebonyi Disabled Community Threatens Statewide Protest Over Planned Forced Evacuation ‎

‎ ‎ ‎ABAKALIKI — Tension is mounting in Ebonyi State as members of the disability community have threatened to embark on a statewide protest over an alleged plan by the government to forcefully evacuate persons with disabilities from their office at Presco Junction in Abakaliki.

‎ ‎The group, under the aegis of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Ebonyi State chapter led by Comrade Friday Nwovu expressed concern that the proposed action would worsen the plight of vulnerable citizens who are already struggling with economic hardship and limited access to social support. ‎ ‎Speaking during a meeting in Abakaliki, the Chairman of the association, Comrade Nwovu warned that any attempt to relocate or remove persons with disabilities from the current location without adequate compensation, and provision of alternative means of livelihood would be strongly resisted. ‎

‎According to the group, persons with disabilities have constitutional rights and should not be subjected to policies that could further marginalize them. ‎ ‎They called on the state government to engage stakeholders in meaningful dialogue and ensure that any decision affecting their welfare is taken in line with the principles of inclusion and respect for human dignity. ‎ ‎The association further maintained that it remains committed to peaceful engagement but warned that its members would not hesitate to stage peaceful protests across the state if the alleged plan is implemented. ‎ ‎The JONAPWD Chairman appealed to Governor Francis Nwifuru to intervene and ensure that the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities are protected. ‎ ‎They also urged relevant government agencies and civil society organizations to support efforts aimed at promoting inclusive development and preventing discrimination against people living with disabilities in the state. ‎ ‎Contacting the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health on phone, Dr. Ezego Lawrence confirmed the plan stating that the property belong to the State Hospital Management Board and it has gained approval from the State governor to build South East Zonal Blood Bank in the area. ‎ ‎ ‎He, however, directed the State Chairman of JONAPWD to write to his office as to raise a memo to the Governor for alternative place as their office knowing that government is passionate about the well being of the disables who are also citizens of the state. ‎