The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPDA), has called for an investigation into allegations that police assaulted a disabled man in Bauchi State.
In a statement released on Friday, Executive Secretary of NCPWD, James Lalu, condemned the alleged assault on Hamza Waziri, expressing grave concern.
The statement highlighted a video circulating on social media, showing Mr. Waziri being violently attacked while peacefully protesting in front of the Bauchi State Government House.
Statement On Police Assault
“Hamza Waziri is not only a person with a disability but also a respected member of the CODE Board of Trustees, a Mandela Washington Fellow, a Chevening Fellow, and the founder of the Initiative for the Liberalization of Physically Challenged People in Nigeria.”
The secretary maintained that “Hamza’s tireless work as an inclusion advocate has made significant strides in promoting the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
People Also Read: #EndBadGovernance: Atiku Urges Tinubu To Hear Citizens Cry
“The actions of the police officers involved are a clear violation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018 and the fundamental human rights enshrined in our constitution.
“The NCPWD calls on the Nigeria Police Force to set a high standard for upholding these laws and to lead by example in the enforcement of anti-discrimination policies.”
The commission demanded a thorough investigation into the incident and immediate disciplinary action against those responsible and challenged the Force to demonstrate its commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens, including those with disabilities.
“While it is our view that the protest is needless because seeds, when sowed, take time to germinate.
So president Bola Tinubu’s administration deserves the support of all citizens, we however, stand in solidarity with Hamza Waziri and all individuals with disabilities who continue to face discrimination and violence.
