To further intensify the campaign against gender-based violence against women and girls living with disability, especially down-syndrome within the council area, Ikorodu Local Government, under the leadership of Hon. Wasiu Adeshina, has partnered with the Down Syndrome Foundation to host a strategic Stakeholders meeting.
The meeting, held at the Council auditorium, serves as a platform for educating key community stakeholders, comprising of community leaders, market men and women, CDC leaders, religious bodies as well as security agencies.
A key resolution at the meeting was the need for Community stakeholders to take responsibility for the welfare and protection of rights of women and girls living with disabilities in the communities, in the light of their vulnerability.
National Administrator of Down Syndrome Foundation of Nigeria (DSFN), Mrs. Nike Denis, in her insightful presentation enlightened stakeholders on the nature of Down syndrome—a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21—and its physical, cognitive, and health impacts.
She further explained that, ‘While individuals with Down syndrome may face intellectual and developmental challenges, they can live normal and fulfilling lives like other human beings, if they get proper support, therapy, and advocacy’.
She equally gave insight into the establishment of DSFN in 2001 and shed light into the body’s activities, which includes inclusive education, therapy, family support, medical assistance, advocacy, vocational training and community integration among others.
A major highlight of the meeting was the interactive session with attendees, where further enlightenment was provided on the peculiarities of Down Syndrome.
These peculiarities include, lack of self awareness and self-advocacy skills, lack of mental and emotional capacity and the fact that they are mostly dependent on caregivers.
Clarification on certain misconceptions about people living with Down syndrome, were also made.
They are not imbeciles children with Down-syndrome can live normal, regular lives and pursue their dreams and goals just like other human beings. Meanwhile, imbeciles cannot do any of these things.
Addressing the gathering, the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Hon Wasiu Adeshina, who was ably represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Lateef Afinnih, commended the DSFN for embarking on the advocacy for people with Down syndrome, describing it as humane.
Affinih further assured the organization of the readiness of the Council’s leadership to provide robust support for the DSFN and her activities.
He also used the opportunity to charge parents of children with Down syndrome not to give up on them, but support them to live meaningful lives.
Notable dignitaries at the event were, Deaconess Busola Isikalu, Iyaloja-General of Ikorodu Division; Alhaja Rashidat Bello, Ikorodu Division APC Woman Leader; Baale of Ojogbe Community , Chief Olomo and a retinue of other Baales.
Others were, CDC Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government, Elder Ogunjimi Yekinni amongst others.
