Disabled Poly Graduate Runs Into Depression Over Unemployment
A non-governmental organisation, Oratorio Music Foundation, has sought help from the Osun State Government to assist one Aworanti Obaloluwa, a disabled graduate of Federal Polytechnic, Ede, who is struggling with severe depression.
Founder of the foundation, Dr. Oyindamola Adejumo, in a statement made available to journalists at the weekend, said Obaloluwa is sinking deeper into depression due to prolonged unemployment and a lack of social support.
Adejumo, who expressed his personal concern for the lady, stated that, “I vouch for Obaloluwa and urge the Osun State Government to take immediate action to help her before it is too late.
“I first met Obaloluwa in 2008 when she joined the Oratorio group at the Federal Polytechnic Ede. Despite her disability, which affects her legs and makes walking difficult—though she does not use crutches—Obaloluwa was known for her service spirit and joy in singing.
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“Unlike many, who seek financial aid, she never asked for anything; she wanted to contribute and give back. She comes from a rural area near Ilesa, where her elderly parents struggled as peasant farmers. Despite this, she pursued her education with determination, completing both her ND and HND at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede.
“I had assured her that with her degree and her status as a disabled woman, job opportunities would be available, especially given Nigeria’s policies favouring the employment of persons with disabilities. However, nearly eight years after her graduation, no job has materialised. Her father passed away five years ago, forcing Obaloluwa to return to her village and the family farm, where she became isolated and cut off from job prospects.
“A year ago, she expressed her desire to move to Ibadan, hoping to save enough money to rent a room. While I wanted to support her, I was concerned about the challenges she would face—unemployment and loneliness in a city where she had no friends or family. She then withdrew, stopped talking about her struggles, and eventually, we lost touch. I never imagined her circumstances had pushed her into depression.
“I am terrified for her safety and well-being. I fear she could fall victim to traffickers, kidnappers, or worse. Obaloluwa is at a breaking point, and I do not want her life to be cut short by desperation or tragedy.
“I appeal to the Osun State Government to come to Obaloluwa’s aid. I know many state governments in Nigeria reserve employment slots for persons with disabilities, and I believe Osun State is no exception.
“I implore the First Lady of Osun State, the Commissioner for Youth Affairs, and the Commissioner for Women, Children, and Social Affairs to intervene urgently. Obaloluwa’s life is at risk and she needs immediate help.”
