Itsekiri PWDs Allege Hijack of DESOPADEC Xmas Bonus

About 200 persons with disabilities (PWDs) of Itsekiri extraction have accused a cartel of hijacking annual disability Christmas bonus meant for them by the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).

Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr. Toju Tuoyo, Convener and President of the Association of Itsekiri Persons with Disabilities, said the association is duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, the Delta State Government, and affiliated with the Palace of the Olu of Warri.

He alleged that for over 15 years, DESOPADEC had made provisions of about ₦2 million annually for persons with disabilities, but the funds are diverted by an unaccountable group.

“They give our people about ₦3,000 and take nearly 80 per cent,” Tuoyo said.

He claimed DESOPADEC continued to deal with the group out of fear of violence, including threats to shut down the commission’s offices.

Demanding transparency and respect for the rights of persons with disabilities, he called on DESOPADEC to channel all bonuses and benefits through the recognised body representing Itsekiri PWDs across Warri and its environs.