We, the Kogi Central Persons with Disabilities Association, write to you with a heartfelt plea for reconsideration regarding recent decisions affecting our community within the party.
It has come to our attention that while the APC has made commendable efforts to promote inclusivity for women and marginalized communities, the allocation of interest and nomination forms for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Kogi State has not received the same level of consideration. This oversight not only undermines the spirit of inclusivity that the APC stands for but also represents a form of discrimination against the disabled community in our state.
The APC has established a commendable precedent of considering the needs of women and PWDs when it comes to the purchasing of nomination forms, reducing costs to encourage participation. However, the current framework appears to disproportionately favour women while leaving PWDs without any designated allocations. This lack of representation is concerning and sends a message that the contributions and capabilities of individuals with disabilities are not valued equally. We seek your support in rectifying this imbalance and ensuring that all voices within our party are given the opportunity to be heard.
We also wish to draw the attention of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, and other stakeholders within the APC to this pressing issue. We believe that our participation in the upcoming Kogi State Local Government Elections is crucial for demonstrating our abilities and potential as active contributors to society. We ask that you advocate for policy changes that will allow us to showcase our talents and capabilities, fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of their physical limitations, can contribute to governance and community development.
It is essential to remind ourselves that we are all equal in the eyes of God and that disability should not be viewed as a barrier to participation in political processes. Disabilities are not commodities to be bought or sold; rather, they are aspects of human diversity that should be embraced and celebrated. We aspire for total inclusiveness, where every individual, regardless of their abilities, can participate fully in civic life and contribute to the betterment of our society.
In short, we urge you to reflect on our requests and take the necessary actions to promote inclusivity within the APC in Kogi State. Together, we can build a party and a state that values the contributions of all its citizens, regardless of their physical abilities. Let us work towards a future where everyone is empowered to participate and contribute to the progress of our beloved Kogi State.
Long Live APC!
Long Live the Executive Governor of Kogi State!
Long Live Kogi State!
Signed:
Comrade Yakubu Nazir Abdulhakeem
President, Kogi Central Persons With Disabilities Association
