By Julius Nsikak
The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State House Committee on Health and Nutrition, Honourable Moses Essien, has called on Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom State to assent to the Disability Protection Bill recently passed by the Eighth Assembly to ensure the inclusion and protection of persons living with disabilities in the state.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Explicit News at his office on Thursday, 16th October 2025, Hon. Essien, who represents Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, said the legislature has fulfilled its constitutional role by passing the bill, which aims to promote the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, including those living with cerebral palsy.
According to him, the bill, sponsored by Hon. Uduakobong Ekpo-Ufot, member representing Etinan State Constituency, has successfully passed its second and third readings and underwent a public hearing at Four Points by Sheraton, Ikot Ekpene. The event was attended by various donor agencies, disability groups, USAID, Policy Alert, and legal experts, all of whom expressed strong support for its passage.
“As a legislature, we have done our part. What remains now is for the governor to give his assent so that the law can take effect,” Hon. Essien stated.
The lawmaker emphasised that the bill is a major step towards ensuring equal access and protection for persons living with disabilities in Akwa Ibom State. He explained that once assented to, the law would compel government ministries and institutions, particularly the Ministry of Education to provide special facilities and training programmes to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities.
“This law captures the protection and inclusion of persons with disabilities across all sectors. It ensures that people with cerebral palsy and others are treated with dignity and have equal access to education, employment, and empowerment opportunities,” he added.
Hon. Essien also revealed plans to sponsor a motion to extend maternity leave in the state from three to six months and to introduce a three-week paternity leave, saying the initiative will help promote exclusive breastfeeding and improve child health.
“About eleven states in Nigeria have already adopted this policy, and Akwa Ibom should not be left behind,” he said. “When mothers have enough time to breastfeed, it strengthens babies’ immunity and prevents killer diseases.”
On personal efforts, the lawmaker disclosed that he had appointed a Personal Assistant on Disability Affairs in his constituency and empowered people with disabilities with about ₦1.7 million, as part of his commitment to promote inclusion and self-reliance.
“Many of these individuals are intelligent and capable. They only need adequate government support to succeed,” he said.
Hon. Essien commended Explicit News for bringing the issue of cerebral palsy to public attention, stressing that inclusivity should not be seen as a favour but as a constitutional responsibility.
“Every person with disability deserves access, opportunity, and protection,” he concluded. “The Eighth Assembly is fully committed to promoting equality and human dignity through progressive policies and laws.
