By Friday Obande
Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative, has criticized the denial of one of their fellows, Aisha Aminu, who’s appointment was halted by Federal Medical Centre’ FMC, Bida, Niger State.
This was made known by Program Manager Mr. Kayode Arokoyo during a press briefing held at Edo House in Abuja where he condemned what he described as an unjust treatment over an innocent citizen based on her physical condition.
He said, “We find it imperative to address the recent case concerning Aisha Aminu based on her her visual impairment.
This assertion that Aisha is unfit for the nursing role and a potential risk to patients is not only unfounded but also discriminatory.
“It is pertinent that FMC Bida adheres to these standards and ensure equal opportunities for all.
The organisation further placed three vital demands which are; reinstatement of Aisha Aminu to her position without delay, compensate for the distress and harm caused by this unjust decision and implement inclusive practices and reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
The group vowed to continue to combat discrimination and stigma against women with disabilities.
They encouraged the public to join in the crusade for justice for both Aisha Aminu, as well as and other marginalised PWDs across the country.
On her part/ Acting National Coordinator, AWWDI, Mrs. Yakubu Bilkisu emphasized the need for inclusion of disabled persons, saying it is a global practice, in order to encourage a sense of belonging for such.
On the issue of access to pedestrian bridges across the county, Bilkisu noted called on the government to consider the construction of enabling walkways for both disabled persons and the old who cannot utilise the conventional traffics of the bridges.
She equally advocated for Housing schemes to be initiated to accommodate these citizens who seem to have been short changed over the years.
The AWWDI recently bagged an award, as its advocacy and consistency had earned five awards of recognition for PWDs advocacy by Canada. It continues to stand as a voice for many physically impaired persons across the country and beyond.
