GTB, CDC, Others Warn against Discrimination of Autistic Persons

By Martins Ifijeh

As part of efforts to tackle autism in the country, Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) in partnership with Children’s Development Centre (CDC), The learning Place Center (TLPC) and the Cycology Riding Club, has warned that discrimination of autistic persons could slow down its management process.

They said people with autism deserve love, attention and should be understood, as this would aid in cohabiting and interacting with them perfectly.

The organisations, while stating this at a press briefing to mark World Autism Day in Lagos recently, tagged: ‘Be a voice for children living with autism’ called on parents and loved ones not to neglect autistic persons around them.

According to the Director, CDC, Dr. Yinka Akindayomi, she said the percentage of people living with autism is yet to be discovered but research has it that the males were more prone to autism than the female, adding that females has the capacity to control any form of insults on the body system than their male counterpart.

She said it was often difficult to recognise people with autism but added that they can be recognised through their social situations. “They are not the social type and their communication strength is not as smooth as other persons.

The coalition, which embarked on a walk and cycling campaign on IAD to raise awareness on the condition among Nigerians, moved from Town Planning Way Bus stop, while the cycling campaign started from Syrian Club, Ikoyi. The campaign covered major routes, such as Third Mainland Bridge, Ikorodu road and Lekki expressway.

The walk and cycling against autism officially kick started the 6th edition of GTB’s annual autism programme which is designed to support children and developmental disabilities, most especially the Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism, according to the medical dictionary is a life-changing disorder characterised by a withdrawal from contact with people, repetitive behaviour, and fear of change in the environment. The emotional disorder affects the brain’s ability to receive and process information.