From Law To Action: Disability Stakeholders Demand Full Implementation Of Taraba Law

Stakeholders and members of the disability community in Taraba State have commended the state government for adopting the Persons with Disabilities Law, while calling for its full implementation to ensure the protection of the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.

The appeal was made on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ town hall meeting and policy dialogue organised in Jalingo by Mary Yusuf, a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), under the National Policy Advocacy Lab (N-PAL). The event was held under the theme, “From Law to Action.”

According to Bush Radio Academy, the Taraba State Government domesticated the Persons with Disabilities Law on July 23, 2025, in a move widely regarded as an important step towards recognising and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.

However, more than a year after the law was adopted, concerns remain over its implementation and the persistent obstacles faced by people living with disabilities across the state.

Speaking at the event, Yusuf explained that the initiative was designed to identify the challenges preventing the effective enforcement of the law, develop practical recommendations and obtain commitments from relevant stakeholders to ensure that its provisions translate into meaningful improvements.

She emphasised the importance of cooperation among government agencies, civil society organisations and members of the disability community, noting that collective action was necessary to bridge the gap between legislation and practical implementation.

Representatives of the Office of the Secretary to the Taraba State Government, the National Human Rights Commission and the National Orientation Agency, alongside other participants, acknowledged the importance of the dialogue and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the effective implementation of the law.

Also speaking, Hamza Magaji, a representative of the Taraba State Persons with Disabilities Agency, raised concerns about the discrimination and exploitation persons with disabilities reportedly experience during social gatherings. He addressed participants through an interpreter.

Magaji expressed particular concern about women with disabilities, whom he said were especially vulnerable to discriminatory practices and exploitation.

He called for greater public awareness, stronger institutional support and practical measures to protect persons with disabilities from abuse, discrimination and other forms of mistreatment.

Participants at the dialogue expressed optimism that the engagement would strengthen accountability and encourage relevant authorities to take concrete steps towards enforcing the law.

They also stressed the need to create a more inclusive society where persons with disabilities can exercise their rights, participate fully in community life and access the protection and opportunities guaranteed under the law.