By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO:–In a move aimed at strengthening accountability, inclusion and democratic governance within disability advocacy structures, the Sokoto State Government has dissolved the Executive Committee of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Sokoto State chapter, following the expiration of its tenure on January 15, 2026.

The dissolution, which takes immediate effect, was approved by the Honourable Special Adviser to the Governor on Disability Matters, Hon. Umar Mohammed Masarin Gobir.

The action, government officials say, is designed to ensure institutional continuity while paving the way for a transparent transition to a newly elected leadership.

To manage the affairs of the association during the transition period, the state government has constituted a Caretaker Committee with a six month mandate.

The committee is tasked with stabilising the organisation, protecting the interests of persons with disabilities, and organising credible elections for a substantive Executive Committee in line with national best practices.

According to the government, the intervention underscores Sokoto State’s commitment to inclusive governance and the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities, in alignment with national disability policies and Nigeria’s obligations under international conventions.

Members of the Caretaker Committee are drawn from across the disability community to ensure broad representation, gender balance and youth inclusion. They are expected to work closely with relevant stakeholders to deepen advocacy, promote unity and strengthen the voice of persons with disabilities at both state and national levels.

The Caretaker Committee is chaired by Comrade Abubakar Muazu, with Comrade Aminu Kasim serving as Vice Chairman. Saidu Usman Acida was appointed Secretary, while Saidu Suleiman Muhammed will serve as Organising Secretary.

Other members include Altine Mai Kanga as Treasurer; Abubakar Yahaya as Public Relations Officer I; Bashiru Maidabo as Public Relations Officer II; Ummu Bello as Women Leader; Kasimu Dan Malam as Youth Leader; and Hassan Umar as Auditor.

Government officials expressed confidence that the caretaker leadership would uphold the values of transparency, participation and equity, while laying a solid foundation for the emergence of a democratically elected executive that reflects the aspirations of persons with disabilities in Sokoto State.

The development is being viewed by disability rights advocates as part of a broader national push to strengthen disability institutions, promote inclusive leadership, and ensure that organisations representing persons with disabilities remain vibrant, accountable and responsive to the communities they serve.