By DADA AYOKHAI
The Edo Disability Forum, on Tuesday urged the Edo State government to extend support to the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) who are also battling to cope with the negative effects of the removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government.
According to the convener of the body Melody Omosah said that some physical challenged persons are even entertaining suicidal thoughts as a result of the hardship and suffering occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG) Osarodion Ogie in Government House in Benin City, Omosah said the current economic situation occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal is unbearable, suffocating and frustrating for Persons with Disabilities in the state .
“Some PWDs stay at home without hope for the next meal. There is the increase feeling of loneliness, overthinking and depression.
“Wives of Disabled Persons have abandoned their husbands because of the hardship. Husbands of Disabled women have also abandoned their wives because of the suffering.
He said PWDs are three times more disadvantaged and disproportionately affected by the fuel subsidy removal noting that the removal of fuel subsidy is fostering inequality and inequity against PWDs as well as has further limiting their inclusivity and opportunities.
“The fuel subsidy removal policy on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is particularly severe, as they grapple with heightened vulnerability in the absence of adequate social protection mechanisms. ” Omosah said.
Omosah appealed to the state government to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal by ensuring the well-being of PWDs
He called on the governor to develop support systems and launch targeted assistance programs and subsidy systems for their basic needs and disability-related expenses.
Omosah equally tasked the government to introduce specialized Health Insurance plans and also introduce subsidies on public transportation, as well as provide disability-friendly buses to reduce their plight and predicament.
Responding, Secretary to the Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie pledged the government support for Person With Disabilities (PWDs) in the state to cushion the hardship and suffering among the less privileged.
