Anambra Health Stakeholders Advocate For A National Sickle Cell Law (Photos)
Anambra State celebrated the world cell day yesterday, 19th June 2019 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Neni.
The Anambra state assembly recently passed the Sickle Cell bill in April 2019. Commissioner of health, Dr. Vincent Okpala, who was present at the function said the summary of the bill is that it will prevent people from ending up with Sickle Cell disease and providing newborn screening.
READ ALSO: APGA Lawmaker Defects To PDP
Hon Charles Chukuma, former member Anambra state house of Assembly representing Anaocha II, who has been at the Forefront of this issue has called on the National Assembly to push the Sickle Cell bill, and sign it into law. Hon. Chukwu was of the opinion that law from the National Assembly will help prevent and reduce the rate of children born with Sickle Cell Disorder and also create an enabling environment for those who already have the sickness to live a normal life without discrimination.
Also, the National Coordinator of
Association of People Living with Sickle Cell Disorder (APLSCD), Aisha Edward has called on the Nigerian government to pay more attention to the Sickle Cell patients by giving them more support in society.
According to Aisha who also has the Sickle Cell Disorder, she said, “I have been a victim of discrimination from the government many times, and I don’t want to mention them”.
She asked that the government should recognize them, she also thanked the governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano for his support to the Sickle Cell organization in Anambra state.
Faith Micheal, another member of APLSCD and a Sickle Cell patient has asked the government and National Assembly to sign a Sickle Cell law.
According to Faith, she said, “it will be the greatest joy of my life if we have a Sickle Cell law, it will eliminate much discrimination we had to face especially when looking for a job”.
READ ALSO: [Just In] NYSC: INEC Speaks On Automatic Employment For Corps Members
Faith said she has been denied countless jobs due to her condition,
“when you undergo the medicals during screening and they find out your condition they screen you out”.
The Anambra state bill on Sickle Cell is yet to be signed into law by the Governor but the Commissioner of health has promised it will be signed soon
Post Disclaimer
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author and forum participants on this website do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Anaedo Online or official policies of the Anaedo Online.
