The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) has called on the government to protect its members following the increasing spate of killings and widespread insecurity in the country.

JONAPWD also urged its members to always apply the safety net mechanism and other security tips to stay safe.

JONAPWD National Women Leader, Hajiya Zainab Mustapha, made the call on Tuesday at the Strengthening and Capacity Building of Conflict Early Warning and Early Response workshop in Plateau State.

The project, which has a rapid response group set up to improve timely and coordinated responses to conflict and climate-related risks, also includes banditry, communal tensions, and resource-based disputes.

According to Hajiya Zainab, persons living with disabilities often face uphill challenges during conflicts and often fall victims or such conflicts.

The women leader said even though able persons are also affected during a crisis, persons with disabilities are more in harm’s way. She, therefore, called on the government and relevant authorities to endeavour to do more in protecting persons with disabilities during a crisis.

On his part, the Technical Lead, National Conflict Early Warning and Early Response System, Dr Mang Chaimang, noted that the project is being implemented in four states – Plateau, Benue, Kaduna and Katsina.

He said that through the training, the capacities of the various security agencies have been strengthened in attending to emergencies. (Daily Trust)