Bayelsa State House of Assembly has passed a disability bill aimed at strengthening the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) across the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that the legislation, passed on March 18, is designed to create a legal framework that ensures access to education, healthcare, employment, and other socio-economic opportunities for PWDs, while also protecting them from discrimination and social exclusion.
The bill was sponsored by Daniel Charles and received support from other lawmakers, including Ayibanegiyefa Egba, who chairs the house committee on women, children, and social development.
Its passage followed months of consultations, stakeholder engagements, and public hearings to ensure the law reflects the needs of the disability community in the state.
Reacting to the development, the Centre for Disability Rights, Empowerment and Development commended the assembly’s leadership under Speaker Abraham Ingobere for advancing inclusive governance and prioritising equal opportunities.
Governor Douye Diri is expected to assent to the bill, after which it will become law and enable the establishment of structures to enforce disability rights in the state.
The move is being seen as a major step toward improving inclusion, protection, and empowerment for persons with disabilities in Bayelsa.
