Osun Assembly holds Public Hearing on Disability Protection Bill

The Osun State House of Assembly, (OSHA) has passed a bill in favour of Persons Living with disabilities, (PWDs) titled Osun State Disability Protection Bill.

The bill, which was sponsored by the Honourable representing Obokun State Constituency, Adewumi Adeyemi, was passed on Thursday, 21st September 2023.

The bill aims at protecting the rights of Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) and to foster inclusion of persons living with disabilities in governance, within Osun State.

During the hearing, Deputy Speaker, Akinyode Adewusi, representing the Speaker explained that the bill had successfully passed the first and second readings.

Therefore, the public hearing was essential to consider potential amendments or additions to the bill.

Adding that the bill seeks to protect the interests of PWDs, preventing discrimination or intimidation among other residents of the state.

Akinyode said the bill’s ultimate goal is to enhance the well-being of PWDs and provide them with opportunities for livelihood.

Similarly, Honourable Adeyemi Adewumi, who sponsored the bill expressed confidence in the bill’s passage, stating that Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is supportive of PWDs, would assent to it after passing through the third reading.

Responding to the development, Stephen Olufemi, Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Osun State, expressed appreciation for the Assembly’s public hearing and urged the House Committee to review the bill, hoping for its successful passage.

Similarly, the Executive Director of Insight Initiative for Community and Social Development, Jare Ismahil Tiamiyu, urged the Assembly to consider some of the presentations made by the stakeholders.

Tiamiyu, whose organization also made presentation during the hearing, described the current Assembly under Speaker Adewale Egbedun as one that is working with the people of the State.

The Chairman of our Board of Trustees, Oba Adekunle Makama Oyelude, CON, the Olowu of Kuta, sends his appreciation to the House.

He urged the House to ultimately consider the presentations by the Stakeholders and promised his ultimate support to the project.

Stakeholders also voiced their concerns and expectations regarding the bill, expressing optimism about its eventual approval.