FIC Report (Benue State) – The Benue State House of Assembly has passed the much-anticipated Disability Rights Commission Bill 2025 into law, marking a historic step toward protecting the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities in the state.
The announcement was made by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aondona Dajoh, during plenary on Friday, 1st August 2025, at the Assembly Complex in Makurdi.
The motion for the third reading was moved by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mrs. Lami Danladi, who represents Ado State Constituency. While presenting the bill, she emphasized that persons with disabilities in Benue State have long been denied essential rights and privileges due to the absence of a legal framework or commission to safeguard their interests.
She noted that neighboring states such as Nasarawa and Plateau have already enacted and operationalized similar laws, leaving Benue as the only state in the North Central region yet to do so—until now.
In his remarks, the Speaker affirmed that the establishment of the Disability Rights Commission will promote inclusivity, protect the rights of the physically challenged, and empower them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state. He then directed the Clerk of the House, Mr. John Hwande, to read the bill for the third time and transmit a copy to the Governor for his assent.
Speaking to journalists shortly after plenary, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Special Needs expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Tenth Assembly for the swift and compassionate passage of the bill. He described the development as a beacon of hope, stating that “persons with special needs in Benue State now have a voice.”
Signed
VERONICA AZEMBA
For: Head of Center,
Federal Information Center, Makurdi
