The National Leader of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dr. Chike Okogwu, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to shift his focus from political battles to confronting the economic hardship, insecurity and social challenges facing millions of Nigerians.
Reacting to the President’s recent comments on political competition, Okogwu said the pressing concerns of ordinary Nigerians were inflation, unemployment, hunger, insecurity and the soaring cost of living, not partisan exchanges.
He said the government must urgently deploy policies that ease the burden on citizens and restore public confidence in the economy.
The ADC chieftain also expressed concern over the continued exclusion of Persons with Disabilities from critical sectors, noting that many still struggle to access quality healthcare, education, transportation, employment and other essential public services.
He called on the Federal Government and state governments to fully implement the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, stressing that the law must move beyond paper promises to tangible improvements in the lives of people living with disabilities.
According to Okogwu, inclusive governance must become a national priority through investments in accessible infrastructure, quality education, healthcare, economic empowerment and increased representation of Persons with Disabilities in leadership and public institutions.
He said history would remember leaders not for political rhetoric or electoral victories but for their ability to confront national challenges, strengthen institutions and improve the quality of life of citizens.
“The true test of leadership is the courage to solve problems, protect the vulnerable and build a nation where every Nigerian, regardless of physical ability, has an equal opportunity to succeed,” he said.