The Chairman of the Ikorodu West Deaf Development Association, Tosin Kuku, has called on the Lagos State Government to consider members of the deaf community for political appointments at the local government level.
Kuku made the appeal while speaking with journalists during the association’s first annual meeting for persons living with disabilities, PLWDs, in Ikorodu West.
The gathering took place on Saturday at the Ikorodu West Local Council Development Area, LCDA, secretariat in Lagos.
His appeal comes shortly after the Lagos State Government announced the appointment of secretaries and supervisors across its 20 local government areas and 37 LCDAs.
Kuku said including members of the deaf community and other persons with disabilities in local government leadership would help ensure that their welfare receives adequate attention.
According to him, such appointments would also strengthen the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities and improve policies that affect them.
“Giving our members the opportunity to serve in these positions will foster stronger collaboration between government and the disability community.
“It will also encourage greater awareness about environmental accessibility and ensure that the needs of persons with disabilities are properly addressed.
“More importantly, it will promote inclusion in the formulation and implementation of local government programmes and policies,” he said.
Kuku noted that several members of the association are qualified professionals, with many holding university degrees in various disciplines.
He also expressed appreciation to the Chairman of Ikorodu West LCDA, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, for his support toward persons with disabilities and for providing them with a platform to express their concerns.
However, Kuku urged the council chairman to further strengthen initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and inclusion of people living with disabilities in the area.
‘Give us seats’ – Deaf association demands political appointments for members in Lagos
