ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Persons Living With Disabilities Bill 2024 has successfully passed through all legislative procedures at the State House of Assembly, marking a significant milestone for disability rights in the state.
Sponsored by Hon Marylyn Okowa-Daramola, the Member Representing Ika North East, the comprehensive bill was read for the third time and passed during Tuesday’s plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.
The bill’s passage, the second in the 8th Assembly, followed a motion by Majority Leader Hon Emeka Nwaobi, after a thorough legislative scrutiny at the Committee of the Whole, chaired by Speaker Emomotimi Guwor, with Hon Bridget Anyafulu leading the amendments process.
During the committee session, lawmakers examined the 51-section bill clause by clause, making necessary amendments, including on the schedule and marginal notes of the proposed legal document.
Previously, the bill had successfully passed first and second readings and was referred to the joint House Committees on Housing, Women Affairs, Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Support Services, as well as the Special Committee on Bills.
Speaker Emomotimi Guwor commended the lawmakers for their contributions, stating, “This bill is indeed a great achievement for this Honorable House as it comes with great respite for those living with disabilities.”
Lead sponsor Hon Marylyn Okowa-Daramola expressed delight at the bill’s passage, describing it as a significant win for persons with disabilities in Delta State. She emphasized that the proposed law would ensure improved inclusiveness, participation, protection, equity, and empowerment for individuals with disabilities.
The bill, now awaiting the Governor’s signature, aims to eradicate discrimination against individuals with disabilities, promote inclusivity and accessibility, improve access to transportation, and emphasize the rights of persons living with disabilities to education, independent living, access to information, and participation in political, cultural, and social life.
The proposed law also provides for the establishment of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, a body that will facilitate the implementation of its provisions.
Hon. Okowa-Daramola expressed gratitude to the Speaker and members for their support and stated her commitment to initiating more people-oriented bills to strengthen peace, development, and good governance in the state.
