Kehinde Adewole, Ado Ekiti
Some women suffering ear impairment in Nigeria have expressed concerns over the high rate of discrimination against them in the Nigerian society.
The special persons under the aegis of Deaf Women Association of Nigeria made this known during an awareness rally, in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, to commemorate International Women’s Day.
Speaking with newsmen through sign interpreter, the National President of Deaf Women Association of Nigeria (DWAN), Deaconess Adedoyin Beyioku-Alase, also expressed worry over the poor attention of government to their plights hence the need for the rally so as to attract the attention of the appropriate authorities and to further educate their members on their right.
“We want the government to include us in everything, even in politics. We need signed interpreters in all government offices as well as hospitals, for effective communication and easy comprehension of our needs.
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Mrs. Bryioku-Alase challenged government at all levels to create more empowerment programmes for the deaf persons such as loans, vocational trainings and employment.
According to her, every citizen is equal irrespective of health status saying government should stop treating them like a slave.
The special persons had earlier paid homage to the Ewi-in-Council and wife of the Governor Kayode Fayemi, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, where they also made their grievances known and solicited assistance in building better life for the deaf.
Presenting a paper, a Guest Lecturer, Mrs. Uri Ngozichukwuka, called on governments develop policies that would protect the interest of deaf women and girls.
She commended President Muhammadu Buhari for signing into law the disabilities bill but called for its effective implementation.
She called for more stringent punishments for those abusing deaf persons.