The Abia State Deaf Association (ABSDA) has denied claims of its suspension by the South East Nigeria Deaf Association (SENDA), describing the publication as false, malicious, and without legal basis.
In a statement issued by its Executive Council, ABSDA said it read “with utter dismay” a report circulated online by SENDA, in which SENDA’s Zonal Coordinator, Agha Efobi, alleged that ABSDA Chairman, Emenike Amakwe and the State Executive Council had been suspended.
ABSDA stated that it formally exited SENDA on April 25, 2026, following a unanimous resolution of its congress.
“Consequently, ABSDA is no longer bound by SENDA’s constitution, directives, or authority in any form. Any claim to the contrary is false and of no legal effect,” the statement read.
The association said SENDA has no legal, constitutional, or jurisdictional authority to suspend or interfere in its internal affairs.
It warned that any such attempt constitutes unlawful interference and vowed to resist it through all lawful means, including legal action for defamation, harassment, and interference with association.
ABSDA also accused SENDA of plotting to sow division within the Deaf community in Abia through a few disgruntled elements.
The association said it would hold SENDA’s Zonal Coordinator and Board of Trustees personally responsible for any breach of peace arising from such actions.
The group expressed loyalty to the Abia State Government and commended Gov. Alex Otti’s administration for its disability-inclusive policies.
It singled out the Abia State Disability Commission and its Chairman, David Anyaele, for programmes and interventions that have brought relief and dignity to Deaf citizens.
“ABSDA remains a law-abiding, independent body committed to peace, unity, and progress for all Deaf persons in Abia.
“We call on the public and the media to disregard SENDA’s falsehoods and to support ABSDA’s mission of building a stronger, united, and self-determined Deaf community in Abia State,” the statement concluded.
