In a concerted effort, individuals with disabilities (PWDs) are appealing to the Federal Government to reconsider recent policy changes, including a reduction of the Value Added Tax (VAT) from 7.5 per cent to 5 per cent by September, as well as a halt on further increments in existing tariffs and duties.
 This request was made through the platform of the Accelerate Disability Inclusion in Emergencies (ADIE) forum during a press conference held in Abuja on Monday.
The press conference was convened to address the adverse consequences of the federal government’s removal of fuel subsidies, particularly concerning its impact on Nigerians, especially those with disabilities.
Mr. Jake Epelle, a founding member of The Albino Foundation (TAF) Africa and a participant in the ADIE forum, emphasised the need for the government to suspend the introduction of new tariffs and duties for at least a year. This move, he believes, would enhance the purchasing power of Nigerians, especially PWDs.
Mr. Epelle further advocated for comprehensive awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. He underscored the importance of inclusive transportation and highlighted the adverse effects of removing fuel subsidies on the disabled community. “These initiatives should foster empathy, respect, and understanding to counter discrimination and cultivate an inclusive society,” he stated.
In addition, Mr. Epelle called for the complete implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act. Specifically, he urged the fulfillment of the 5 per cent employment quota for PWDs and proposed that both private and public sector employers should be incentivised to adopt workforce inclusion measures. These measures could include options such as work-from-home arrangements, flexible schedules, and accessible workplace environments.
Ms. Grace Jerry, Co-chairperson of ADIE and Executive Director of the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), highlighted the necessity of creating standalone social protection interventions for individuals with disabilities at both federal and state levels. This should involve establishing reliable databases of PWDs, instituting food banks to ensure equitable distribution of economic relief, and providing targeted financial assistance.
Ms. Jerry expressed concerns about the lack of clarity regarding how marginalized groups like PWDs would benefit from economic relief programs announced by the government.
She advocated for representatives from Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to be integrated into discussions related to fuel subsidy removal and economic initiatives.
One of the pivotal demands of the ADIE forum is the introduction of an affordable and accessible public transportation system for PWDs by September. This program is designed to provide discounted or free transportation options, including passes and dedicated services. The accessible transportation should cater to various needs, such as adjustable ramps and handrails for wheelchair users, as well as auditory and visual guidance for those with hearing and visual impairments.
Mr. Christian Agbo, another co-chairperson of ADIE, emphasised the socio-economic challenges that the removal of fuel subsidies has inflicted on Nigerians, particularly vulnerable groups like PWDs, women, and youth. While understanding the rationale behind the policy, Mr. Agbo criticised the lack of adequate consultations and accompanying mitigation plans.
He commended the initial economic relief measures outlined by President Bola Tinubu, and while hopeful, he expressed concern that without proper implementation, these measures might not reach those who need them most.
The ADIE forum’s primary goal is to ensure that PWDs are adequately considered in governmental and stakeholder measures aimed at alleviating the impacts of fuel subsidy removal. This encompasses involvement in planning, execution, and monitoring of economic relief measures, as well as the responsible allocation of savings resulting from the subsidy removal policy.
