OAKonsult condemns discrimination, builds support centre in Ogbomoso
The Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye (Orumogege III), and OAKonsult Disabilities Outreach, a non-governmental organisation championing the rights and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), have stressed the need to empower families and individuals with disabilities to enable them to live dignified, inclusive, and purposeful lives.
The Soun, who particularly endorsed the activities of OAKonsult Disabilities Outreach, pledged financial and moral support to ensure that the rights of PwDs, which the organisation is championing, are entrenched in the Nigerian system.
The monarch gave the endorsement during a courtesy visit to his palace by the NGO, as part of a disability awareness and remembrance rally held in memory of Toyitan Abigail, the late PwD child whose story continues to inspire advocacy in Ogbomoso and beyond.
The rally, which brought together schools, civil society groups, and community members, aimed to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and celebrate the resilience and contributions of PwDs.
Participants marched through major areas of Ogbomoso, including the Soun’s Palace, Bowen University Teaching Hospital, the Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary (NBTS), Takie Junction, Oke-Elerin Junction, and Oja Igbo, calling for greater recognition, rights, and resources for people living with disabilities. Oba Olaoye, while receiving the team, described the NGO’s mission as “noble and necessary,” assuring them of continued royal support.
“What you’re doing is heartwarming and commendable. We will continue to support you both morally and financially. I pray that your vision comes to fruition,” the monarch said.
In her remark, Chief Executive Officer of OAKonsult, Olufunke Adeloye, said the rally was designed to push for inclusion across all spheres, religious institutions, communities, and all levels of government.
Adeloye said that her advocacy stems from the pain and purpose of losing a child with disability, an experience that inspired the founding of the organisation.
She, therefore, appealed for support towards the completion of the OAK PRIME Centre, a purpose-built support facility located in Oolo, Oriire Local Council of Ogbomoso.
“The Centre, once completed, will serve as a hub for therapy, learning, and rehabilitation for children and young people with disabilities,” she said.
Meanwhile, a member of the NGO’s Advisory Board, Deji Irawo, described the initiative as part of their broader mission to contribute meaningfully to national development through inclusive social infrastructure.
Similarly, Country Director of OAKonsult, Itunuade Iyun, described the OAK PRIME Centre as a “one-stop support facility” capable of serving between 800 and 1,000 children, ensuring they have “a real chance at life.
