By Michael Ogundare
Physically challenged persons in Ekiti state have solicited the needed support and relevance to make them successful in life to contribute meaningfully to societal growth.
They made the call in Ise Ekiti at a programme organized by the Joint Association of All People With Disability, JONAPWD, Ise-Orun Local Government chapter.
First to speak is a physically impaired legal practitioner, Mr. Gboyega Afolabi who said that with proper motivation, they would go places in life.
According to Mr. Afolabi, they need assistance in areas like education, vocational training, empowerment and employment.
Also, the pioneer Chairman of JONAPWD in Ekiti state, Mr. Peter Adesina expressed the confidence that the physically challenged persons could attain greater heights than their counterparts, if given the needed support.
The current state Chairman of the association, Mr. Kayode Owolabi said JONAPWD would continue to fight for the right of members.
The Ise-Orun Council coordinator of JONAPWD, Mr. Abiodun Esan said the programme was organized to sensitize members on the need to always see ability in disability.
In a remark, the father of the day, Professor Femi Fajewonyomi called for government’s genuine commitment to the welfare of the physically challenged saying, they should be well catered for, being an integral part of the society.
Venerable Ebenezer Babalola of Saint Marks Anglican Church, Ise Ekiti discouraged alms giving among the people, adding that the church was ready to assist any serious minded person among the physically challenged ones.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Ise-Orun Local Government, Mr. Ayodele Akinluyi promised that his administration would always prioritize the welfare of the physically challenged across the council.
