Bayelsa Stakeholders Demand Accountability, Water Provision,  Disability Rights

By Mgbo Nnachi

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – A town hall meeting organised by Connected Development (CODE) brought together civil society organisations, state actors, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and media to discuss crucial issues in Bayelsa State.

The event, held at the Project Trust Town Hall, highlighted the need for enhanced public accountability, accessible infrastructure for PWDs, and a solution to the pressing water shortage in the state.

The stakeholders, emphasising the importance of collaboration, called for increased public awareness about citizen rights and the Disability Act of 2018.

They advocated for accessible public structures, including elevators and wheelchairs, and urged the government to implement the 5% employment quota for PWDs.

BANGOF Chairman, Mr. Taritein Boco, stressed the importance of understanding disability rights, noting: “Persons with disabilities should be given facilities to help them access public spaces and services.”

Founder of DO Foundation, Barrister Dise Ogbise-Harry, urged community involvement in project monitoring: “Communities must be vigilant and report any irregularities to ensure project sustainability.”

The town hall meeting also addressed the critical issue of water supply in Bayelsa state.

Stakeholders unanimously called for the implementation of a Water Resources Act to address the persistent water shortage.

CODE State Support Officer, Mrs. Tare Maureen Amananagha, stated: “The project is to build trust between citizens and the government.

“We need inclusivity in governance so that people can hold their leaders accountable.”

The event culminated in the adoption of the NomTrac digital tool for monitoring community development projects.

This tool will empower citizens and ensure transparency and accountability in the implementation of projects.

An 18-point communique was adopted, including a call for:

• Increased awareness of citizen rights and the Disability Act
• Accessible public infrastructure for PWDs
• Implementation of the 5% employment quota for PWDs
• Domestication of the Discrimination of Persons Living With Disabilities bill
• Accelerated passage of a Water Resources Act
• Continued use of the NomTrac tool for project monitoring

The town hall meeting served as a vital platform for stakeholders to express their concerns and advocate for positive change in Bayelsa State.

The event highlighted the importance of collective action and public participation in achieving good governance and addressing critical community issues.