By Funmi Falae
Concerns continue to mount over the level of compliance with the Ekiti State Disability Law, even after the expiration of its five-year transition period in 2025, which required all public buildings and structures to be made accessible to persons with disabilities.
The law, which commenced in 2020, mandates accessibility features such as ramps, accessible entrances and other infrastructure to ensure equal access to public facilities. However, stakeholders say implementation remains uneven across the state.
Speaking with Radio Nigeria reporter in Ado Ekiti, the Secretary of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in the State, Mr. Femi Oni, said compliance levels vary among institutions. He noted that while some banks have made efforts to improve accessibility at main entrances, challenges remain with automatic revolving doors that are still not usable by wheelchair users, forcing them to wait while others gain access freely.
He also observed that some supermarkets have installed ramps, though many were originally designed for trolleys rather than persons with disabilities. Despite this, he said they still provide some level of access. However, he expressed concern that several government offices remain largely inaccessible.
According to him, major barriers include staircases without ramps, narrow doorways, inaccessible toilets and high service counters, all of which continue to hinder access to public buildings such as schools, hospitals, courts and administrative offices.
Mr. Oni recalled that in 2024, the Ekiti State Executive Council launched a social media awareness campaign urging compliance with the Disability Law. He said the campaign led to some improvements, particularly among banks, but noted that compliance remains insufficient, especially within government institutions. He added that many people still claim ignorance of the law, reflecting weak public sensitization.
On enforcement, he disclosed that no institution or individual has been sanctioned since the expiration of the compliance period in 2025. He attributed this to the absence of a sustained statewide awareness and enforcement campaign, which he said has weakened accountability.
Mr. Oni called on the Ekiti State Office of Disability Affairs, in partnership with the National Orientation Agency, to intensify public enlightenment and ensure that citizens and institutions are fully aware of the law and its penalties.
Stakeholders say stronger enforcement is necessary to guarantee inclusion, protect the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure equal access to public services across Ekiti State.
