Akase meets with persons with disabilities

A top governorship aspirant in Benue State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mr Terver Akase today met with the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Makurdi.

Mr Akase who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Jessica Akase said he was before the group to solicit their prayers and support in his desire to govern the state come 2023.

He said those living with disabilities are special people with abundant talents who would actively participate in his administration to contribute to the development of the state while the government initiates programmes to benefit them.

The guber hopeful said his administration would establish an agency to cater for the needs of people with disabilities, giving assurance that he would also empower women and youths in order to reduce poverty and unemployment.

Also speaking, wife of the governorship aspirant, Mrs Jessica Akase said people with disabilities are dear to the family, describing them as persons who overcame physical conditions and are full of potential. She promised to support her husband to actualize his vision and mission for the state.

Responding, State President, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities in the state, Mr. Anshe-Bem Bartholomew said Mr Akase was the first ever aspirant to meet the group before any election to solicit their support. He stated that after keenly listening to him, the group was convinced that he is the right man for the governorship seat, hence their unanimous decision to endorse and pray for him to emerge victorious.

Mr Anshe-Bem said those present at the meeting with Mr Akase were representing over 8,000 members of the group across the 23 local government areas of Benue State.

Earlier, the leader of people with albinism in the state and National Secretary, people living with disabilities, Mr Onah Adeyi appreciated Mr Akase for always standing by the group and appealed that people with disabilities be included in his government as they are competent hands to contribute to the growth and development of the state.

Other speakers included Mathias Igbana, Solomon Okwe and Samuel Nyikyaa who said they had chosen to support Mr Akase because of his concern and show of love for people with disabilities many years before he joined the governorship race.

State Chairman of the association presented to Mr and Mrs Akase, a copy of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018.