2027: Disability Community Backs Gov. Mbah, Endorses Second-Term Bid

The Enugu State chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) has formally endorsed Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for a second term ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election, citing what it described as his administration’s commitment to the welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
The endorsement followed a State Executive Council meeting of the association held in Enugu on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
In a statement issued after the meeting and signed by the state chairman of the association, Onyebuchi Mba, the group said it was backing the governor’s re-election bid in recognition of policies that have strengthened the rights and participation of persons with disabilities in Enugu State.
The association said it was speaking on behalf of more than 200,000 citizens living with disabilities in the state, stressing that its decision followed a careful assessment of the governor’s performance and his administration’s approach to inclusive governance.
JONAPWD particularly highlighted the establishment of the Enugu State Disability Commission in 2025 as a major milestone in the advancement of disability rights in the state.
According to the group, the creation of the commission—along with the appointment of its board members and the provision of budgetary funding—has helped institutionalise support for persons with disabilities.
The association said the move reflects a deliberate effort by the state government to ensure that the concerns of persons with disabilities receive adequate attention within the governance framework.
“The establishment of the Enugu State Disability Commission stands as a landmark achievement that clearly demonstrates Governor Mbah’s dedication to building a more equitable and inclusive society,” the statement noted.
JONAPWD further described the governor as a visionary leader who has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable development and social inclusion.
It said his administration has helped create an environment in which persons with disabilities are increasingly recognised as active contributors to the development of the state.
The association added that the current leadership in Enugu State has given members of the disability community renewed confidence that their voices and interests will continue to be protected.
According to the group, Governor Mbah’s development agenda reflects a governance philosophy that prioritises inclusivity and equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of physical ability.
The statement emphasised that such policies align with the principles of social justice and inclusive growth, which the association believes are critical to the long-term progress of the state.
JONAPWD therefore called on members of the disability community and residents across Enugu State to support the governor’s re-election bid in 2027.
The association urged citizens to rally behind his leadership and sustain the momentum of policies designed to ensure that no group in the state is left behind.
“We call on all members of the disability community—and indeed the entire people of Enugu State—to join us in this historic endorsement,” the statement said.
The group also encouraged eligible voters, particularly persons with disabilities, to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards in preparation for the upcoming election.
It noted that active participation in the democratic process would enable members of the community to play a stronger role in shaping the future of the state.
The association described Governor Mbah as a leader who combines vision with practical action, praising what it called his ability to translate policies into tangible development projects.
It further commended his administration’s “Leave No One Behind” philosophy, which it said reflects a commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development.
According to the statement, the endorsement represents a vote of confidence in the governor’s leadership style and recognition of the efforts made so far to address the needs of persons with disabilities.
JONAPWD reaffirmed its commitment to working with the state government and other stakeholders to advance policies that promote equality, accessibility, and economic opportunities for persons living with disabilities in Enugu State.
The association also expressed optimism that sustained collaboration between government and disability advocacy groups would further strengthen inclusive development across the state.