The representative of the Hong constituency, Barthiya Wesley, has been elected as the Speaker of the 8th Adamawa State House of Assembly.
His election was uncontested, meaning there were no opposing candidates.
Likewise, Buba Mohammed Jijiwa from Jada Mbulo has also been elected as the Deputy Speaker without any opposition.
Barthiya’s appointment as Speaker marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first person with a physical disability to lead a legislative body, which is an essential pillar of the government.
Although Barthiya did not have a disability from birth, he experienced a life-altering accident in the past that resulted in the amputation of one of his arms.
The UN Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities in its 61st session of the General assembly by resolution A/RES/61/106 states the criteria that establish disability
It says persons with disabilities include those who have long term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments, which, in interaction with various barriers, may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
The election of Barthiya as the Speaker of a significant governmental body at the state level marks a major achievement for a group of individuals advocating for inclusion and protection through the establishment of legal measures that ensure their full equality under the law.
Hon. Barthiya, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party and serving his second term as a lawmaker, assumes the role of Speaker in the 8th Assembly, succeeding Hon. Aminu Iya-Abass, who has been elevated to the position of Senator representing Adamawa Central Zone in the National Assembly.
Barthiya, who was elected in 2019, stands out as one of the youngest legislators ever to be elected in the state’s legislature, accomplishing exceptional representation and delivering remarkable projects for his Hong Constituency. His outstanding performance contributed to the significant victory margin of the PDP in the 2023 general elections.
