Gender Perspectives in Social Exclusion among Persons With Disabilities in Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State

Abstract

Gender inequality is a global phenomenon and has evolved over several years in terms of meaning, relativity, relevance and impact. This paper shows different areas of social exclusion of persons with disabilities through a gender lens.  This study was carried out in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, which is part of Benin Metropolis, the capital of Edo State. The study focused on male and female adults with visual, physical, speech and hearing disabilities as well as albinism. Case study design was used and the sampling technique employed was the purposive sampling which helped to identify specific participants for this study. The qualitative data collection approach was used in this study. Data was collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews that gave quality responses to inquiry. The data collection tool that was used in the study was an interview guide for the focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews. Persons with disabilities participated in focused group discussions and in-depth interview and articulated their perceptions and experiences as it relates to this phenomenon. Review of relevant literature as secondary source of data from journals, books and other resource materials in the internet was carried out to provide insight into the gender perspectives of social exclusion among persons with disabilities from the global perspective to the subnational region of Nigeria to give adequate context. Women with disabilities in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria face more social exclusion issues than men with disabilities in Oredo Local Government Area especially as it relates to employment, relationships and socio-economic status. This paper highlights and recommends proper gender mainstreaming for persons with disabilities in Oredo Local Government Area.in employment, education, health care and social life.

Keywords: Gender, Women, Social Exclusion, Persons with disabilities, Discrimination.