About 200 persons with disabilities (PWDs) of Itsekiri origin have accused a group of hijacking the annual Christmas disability bonus meant for them by the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).
Speaking on behalf of the affected persons, Mr. Toju Tuoyo, Convener and President of the Association of Itsekiri Persons with Disabilities, said the association is properly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, the Delta State Government, and is officially affiliated with the Palace of the Olu of Warri.
Tuoyo alleged that for more than 15 years, DESOPADEC has reportedly set aside about ₦2 million every year for persons with disabilities, but the funds are allegedly diverted by an unregistered and unaccountable group.
According to him, beneficiaries receive as little as ₦3,000, while nearly 80 percent of the funds are taken by the group.
He further claimed that DESOPADEC continues to engage with the group out of fear of possible violence, including threats to shut down the commission’s offices.
Calling for transparency and respect for the rights of persons with disabilities, Tuoyo urged DESOPADEC to disburse all disability bonuses and related benefits through the officially recognised body representing Itsekiri PWDs in Warri and surrounding communities.
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