A Step Towards Equality? An Analysis of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2019

The recognition and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) constitute an essential aspect of human rights law and social justice. In Nigeria, the legal framework governing disability rights has evolved significantly, culminating in the enactment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2019. This Act’s provisions aligns with international human rights instruments, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which Nigeria ratified in 2007. However, it appears the Act has no strong will to herald the desired change envisioned therein since discriminations against PWDs are still prevalent. This research has examined the provisions of the Act to see if it is effective in doing what it was promulgated to. The aim here was to consider how the law is employed to better the lives of PWDs in areas including but not limited to access to justice, employment, healthcare, education, and transportation. It is also examined how the Act legal is adopted for the protection and integration of PWDs in Nigerian. The research found that despite the extant laws, PWDs in the Nigeria still suffer stigmatisation, denial of certain rights like right to employment; educational rights, etc. and do not enjoy significant and substantial integration into society. Based on the above, it is recommended that there should be a reform in the law especially on the implementation of the extant law on Disability inclusion, creation of social and economic fora, social and political education, awareness programs for PWDs.