By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Government has debunked the allegation that it has never accommodated Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in it budgets since it came on board.

The allegation was credited to a former Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Mrs. Uche Ajuluchukwu, who was quoted to have alleged that the administration of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo “has never budgeted a dime for, nor released one Kobo” to Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the State “since it came on board in 2022.”

The diplomat was said to have made the allegation while speaking at an event organized to mark the one year anniversary of the Anambra State Disabilities Rights Commission (ANSDRC).

But a statement signed by the Press Secretary to the State Governor, Christian Aburime, on Friday, August 18, 2023, described Mrs. Ajuluchukwu's statement as erroneous and unfortunate, saying that she chose to misrepresent the facts regarding Governor Soludo’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment for all its citizens, including PWDs.

"Her allegations against Governor Soludo’s administration are not only misguided but also devoid of truth. If there was no concealed motive involved, perhaps one would said that she spoke out of sheer ignorance.

"Contrary to her claims, Governor Soludo’s administration has taken remarkable actions in ensuring the welfareand empowerment of the vulnerable segments of society in the State, including the PWDs.

"It is clear that Mrs. Ajuluckwwu has not taken the time to thoroughly research the government’s initiatives before making such baseless accusations.

"To set the record straight, the Anambra State Government, through the office of the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, has empowered about twelve vulnerable NGOs and associations in the state.

"The empowerment was undertaken by the state government to alleviatethe sufferings of the disabled, the visually impaired, the deaf and dumb, and children with special needs in the state. The interventions are aimed at enhancing the quality of life and opportunities for PWDs.

"Some of the NGOs so far empowered include theAnambra State Albinism Association, National Association of the Deaf, Blind Students Association of Nigeria (Youth Wing) and Association of Women with Disabilities, among others," Aburime said in the statement.

The government spokesman further said that the state government has given approval for the PWDs being trained in different skills at the Oba and Aguleri vocational centres of the state to be empowered.

He also said that the state government has set up a committee to plan and coordinate the implementation of the 1.5 Billion Naira Ward-based economic empowerment for vulnerable persons which include PWDs.

"The data collection for intending beneficiaries of the programme has since commenced. This initiative showcases Governor Soludo’s dedication to fostering economic independence and social inclusion for all, regardless of their physical abilities.

"All said, it is essential to recognize that governing a complex state like Anambra involves multifaceted planning, resource allocation, and implementation.

"Constructive criticism is always welcomed, but it should be based on verified information rather than misleading narratives.

"Mrs. Ajuluchukwu’s assertions not only misconstrue the efforts of the administration but also detract from the true progress being made in Anambra State by Governor Soludo in carrying everyone along, irrespective of social stratification," the statement added.