This concept is brought by the Centre for Citizens with Disability- an NGO established by a person living with disability, leading innovative projects for the disability community.

This concept- ‘Access to Justice Political Participation for PWD’ aims at the following:
(a) ensure that within the project period, relevant MDAs have a better understanding of the Disability Act/Law and commit to adopting good and accountable practices to advance the implementation including budgetary allocation. (b) The media commits to investigative journalism on disability issues that will expose every discriminatory practice including gender violence against women with disabilities. (c) The democratic governance process will be inclusive enough for the political participation of persons with disabilities in Lagos State as a model for other states. (d) accessible education and health services for PWDs in public hospitals in Lagos State.

Solution proposed is through engagement/advocacy, litigation, naming, and shaming. Through this project, CCD will engage relevant stakeholders in Lagos State to sensitize them and build their capacity where necessary on disability issues. There is a need to set precedent by engaging in a few litigation advocacies in the key areas. There will be naming and shaming of people that frustrate the process.

Empowering Change: The Journey of Enhancing Access to Justice and Political Participation for Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State.

In Lagos State, Nigeria, persons with disabilities (PWDs) face a host of barriers that hinder their political participation and engagement in democratic processes. For too long, they have faced insurmountable barriers that hinder their full participation in the political and justice systems. Despite the existence of laws like the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2019 and the Lagos State Special Peoples’ Law (LSSPL), the harsh reality is that these protections often remain mere words on paper and are often not enforced. Amidst these challenges, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) embarked on a mission to change this narrative, to open doors that had long been shut, and to give voice to those who had been silenced.

From August 2021 to June 2024, with steadfast support from Voice Nigeria and Oxfam, CCD launched a transformative project aimed at breaking down these barriers. This initiative was not just another programme; it was a movement towards equity and inclusion. The project sought to bring about meaningful change by improving understanding of disability laws, promoting inclusive practices, and empowering PWDs to engage actively in the political and justice systems.

The journey was as challenging as it was inspiring. It began with the engagement of key stakeholders whose influence could change the narrative for PWDs in Lagos. Through advocacy visits, sensitization programmes, and consultative meetings, CCD ignited a conversation around the rights of PWDs that had long been dormant. The team conducted extensive training and capacity-building sessions, equipping electoral officers, legal practitioners, and aspiring politicians with the knowledge and tools to champion disability inclusion. The impact was significant—LASIEC rolled out inclusive programmes, NSCDC decentralized its Disability Desk, and PWDs began to see themselves not as sidelined observers, but as active participants in the political and justice systems.

Media played a crucial role in this transformation. CCD worked closely with media professionals, guiding them to use respectful and accurate terminology when discussing disability issues. Through radio talk shows, TV appearances, press conferences, and public presentations, the message of inclusion resonated far and wide, changing perceptions and fostering a more inclusive society. Legal support structures were strengthened, with the establishment of toll-free lines for reporting rights violations and the creation of Disability Desk Officer within the Lagos State Judiciary. These efforts ensured that PWDs now had clearer channels for seeking justice and protection against discrimination. A research study on “Political Economy Analysis of Persons with Disabilities’ Participation in Local Government Elections in Lagos State”, was also conducted to analyse the barriers PWDs face in local elections, assess the effectiveness of existing policies, and provide suggestions for improvements. The study emphasized the need for strict government implementation of relevant laws, a review of existing policies to guarantee voting rights, the development of inclusive communication and data collection strategies by LASODA, and the encouragement of political parties to accommodate PWDs in electoral processes.

Perhaps the most profound impact of this journey was felt within the disability community itself. PWDs were no longer just recipients of aid; they were empowered to advocate for their own rights. They were trained, informed, and empowered to stand up against injustice and demand their rightful place in the society. Stories of transformation echoed across Lagos— from the National President of the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN), who praised the newfound enlightenment of media practitioners, to the words of the JONAPWD Lagos State Chapter Chairman, who lauded the platform that allowed PWDs to engage directly with stakeholders. Mr. Anuoluwayinka Isaac, a dynamic member of the blind community, shared how the project ignited a spark of change. “It was a turning point for me and it taught us how to effectively access justice and engage with our local government. We’ve started making our voices heard in court and demanding our rightful inclusion.” In another corner of the community, Mrs. Turkson Abigail, a passionate advocate and leader within the National Association of Persons with Physical Disability (NAPWPD), reflected on her experience. “I learned, grew, and connected with others who share our mission. Your support for women with disabilities has opened doors to new possibilities and meaningful dialogue. I’m committed to sharing these insights with other grassroots women. Your belief in us has already made a significant impact.” The project did not just open doors; it shattered ceilings.”

The journey was filled with tough challenges, from bureaucratic obstacles and lack of support from key decision-makers to accessibility issues that almost stopped us. Yet, through all these hurdles, CCD discovered something powerful: the passion and dedication of our stakeholders were incredible motivators for change. Working with organizations like INEC, LASIEC, and IPAC showed us that informed advocacy could truly influence policy and practice, and the story of Hon. Yusuf Agbabiaka, a Councillor from Apena Ward in Isolo with a physical disability, proved that persons with disabilities can excel in politics when given a fair chance. Similarly, Mr. Anuoluwayinka Isaac, a visually impaired rightsholder who served as INEC Ad-hoc staff in the 2023 general elections, overcame harsh societal mockery and doubt through his determination and understanding of his rights, excelling in his role. These stories remind us that with perseverance and proper support, we can overcome barriers and achieve meaningful progress.

The success of this project in Lagos offers a model for other states to follow. The model of stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and public awareness is replicable and scalable, offering hope for a more inclusive future across Nigeria. CCD’s work is far from finished; it is a continuing journey towards a society where every person, regardless of ability, can participate fully and equally.

But the journey cannot continue without support. To sustain and expand this work, CCD invites you to join in this mission. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your involvement can make a profound difference.

Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind, that every voice is heard, and that the dream of a truly inclusive society becomes a reality.

For more information on how to get involved, visit our website at www.ccdnigeria.org or contact us directly at info@ccdnigeria.org and ccdnigeria@gmail.com. Let’s work together to empower every voice and ensure that no one is left behind.

Link to some of the pictures (Full report for more):

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1oVt0UfbWKQic8QQHi8YR6qImfmptjwKh?usp=drive_link