The Kogi Central Persons With Disabilities Association is urgently calling upon the relevant authorities to seek justice for Hamza Waziri, a physically challenged individual who was brutally assaulted by the Nigerian police during a hunger protest advocating for an end to bad governance in Bauchi State. This incident highlights a disturbing trend of violence against vulnerable members of society, particularly those with disabilities, who deserve protection and respect.
Hamza Waziri, who relies on a wheelchair for mobility, was peacefully exercising his constitutional right to protest when he was violently attacked by police officers. Instead of ensuring the safety and rights of all citizens, the very individuals tasked with maintaining peace resorted to brutality against an innocent person. The president of the Kogi Central Persons with Disabilities Association, Comr. Yakubu Nazir Abdulhakeem, has called for an immediate investigation into the actions of the officers involved in this egregious incident.
The Association is calling on security agents and the Bauchi State government to unveil the identities of the police officers responsible for the mishandling of Hamza Waziri. This is a crucial step not only for justice for Hamza but also for restoring faith in law enforcement’s commitment to protecting all citizens, especially those with disabilities who often face discrimination and violence.
In light of this incident, we urge the National Disability Commission, the Initiative for the Liberation of Physically Challenged People in Nigeria, the Bauchi State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the Association of Lawyers with Disabilities in Nigeria (ALDIN), and other NGOs focused on disability rights to come to our aid. Hamza Waziri has not violated any laws governing persons with disabilities in Nigeria; he merely sought to express his views peacefully. It is imperative that we stand together to protect the rights of all individuals within our community.
The brutality inflicted upon Hamza Waziri is not just an isolated incident; it is a reminder that violence against one member of the disabled community is violence against us all. If we do not take collective action to demand accountability and justice, we risk allowing such injustices to continue unchecked. Today it may be Hamza, but tomorrow it could be any one of us. We must ensure that the law is upheld and that the rights of persons with disabilities are respected.
Signed:
Comrade Yakubu Nazir Abdulhakeem
Kogi Central Persons With Disabilities Association
