HISTORIC MILESTONE: EDO STATE UNVEILS SIMPLIFIED DISABILITY LAW.

A significant milestone in the advancement of disability rights and inclusion was recorded with the official unveiling of the Simplified Edo State  disability Law and the Research report on the accessibility of the Edo State Civil service by the Edo State Government.

The milestone achievement was delivered through a collaboration between the the Edo State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (EDSCPD) , Network for the Advancement of Persons with Disabilities (NAPVID) and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC II) Programme, funded by the European Union through International IDEA.

The simplified document represents more than a revised version of the law. It is a deliberate and highly accessible translation designed to simplify complex legal provisions and make them understandable to a broader audience. By breaking down legal terminology into clear and practical language, the document serves as a user-friendly tool that empowers persons with disabilities, their families, civil society organizations, and duty-bearers with the knowledge needed to understand their rights, encourage compliance, and promote access to justice across the 18 Local Government Areas of Edo State.

The second document – the Research Report of the Accessibility of the Edo state Civil Service- presents the findings of a study conducted on the accessibility within the state civil service. It highlights existing gaps and provides evidence to guide reforms towards a more accessible public service for person with disabilities.

The event also provided an opportunity to appreciate the commitment of the Edo State Government towards building a more inclusive society. Special recognition was given to the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his support of disability inclusion and equal opportunities for all citizens.

The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Musa Umar Ikhilor, was represented at the ceremony by the Acting Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ohunyon Ehikioya. In his remarks, the SSG emphasized that the true strength of any society lies not only in its physical infrastructure but also in its ability to guarantee equal opportunities for all citizens.

The strong presence of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) further demonstrated the collective commitment required to effectively implement and domesticate the provisions of the Disability Law throughout the state.

During the technical review session, the Executive Director of NAPVID, Mr. Melody Omosah, alongside the lead consultant, highlighted key legal protections and obligations contained in the law. Among the notable provisions are penalties aimed at addressing discrimination and marginalisation of persons with disabilities, including fines of ₦100,000 for individuals and ₦250,000 for corporate organisations found guilty of discriminatory practices. The law also prescribes a ₦50,000 fine for the exploitation of persons with disabilities for begging purposes.

The law further recognizes education as a fundamental right for persons with disabilities. Under Section 18, access to education from primary to tertiary level is protected, making it a punishable offence for parents or guardians to deny children with disabilities access to educational opportunities.

In addition, the law promotes institutional support and physical accessibility by mandating the establishment of at least one special school for persons with disabilities in each of the 18 Local Government Areas of Edo State. It also requires the identification and modification of public buildings to ensure accessibility, including the provision of accessible toilets and designated parking spaces. Unauthorized use of disability parking spaces attracts a fine of ₦5,000.

The law also strengthens social protection measures by prioritizing persons with disabilities during emergency situations and promoting their full participation in social and economic activities.

The unveiling of both the Edo State Simplified disability Law and Report on inclusivity and accessibility marks an important step towards ensuring that disability rights are not only protected by legislation but are also understood, accessible, and effectively implemented across Edo State.