The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed that Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) have full rights to participate in Nigeria’s electoral process, particularly ahead of the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election. INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner in Osun State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, made this declaration during a workshop held in Osogbo on Tuesday, emphasizing inclusivity, transparency, and accessibility in the electoral framework. The meeting brought together PWDs, electoral officers, and stakeholders to discuss the deployment and use of assistive devices designed to support independent voting.
Babalola described the engagement as a crucial step toward ensuring that no eligible voter is left behind due to disability. She highlighted INEC’s ongoing commitment to equity and accessibility, noting that PWDs are vital contributors to Nigeria’s democratic development and must not be excluded. “The commission is determined to remove barriers that may hinder participation and to ensure that every eligible citizen can exercise the right to vote independently and with dignity,” she stated.
According to Babalola, Section 54 of the Electoral Act mandates the provision of assistive and inclusive devices for PWDs, including Braille ballot guides, magnifying glasses, and posters for voters who are deaf. These tools were developed after extensive consultations with disability groups to enhance voter autonomy, protect confidentiality, and ensure a smooth voting experience. She urged participants to master the use of these devices and disseminate the knowledge within their communities to prepare all eligible PWD voters.
INEC has also launched a Framework on Access and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in the Electoral Process and established a Department of Gender and Inclusivity to coordinate efforts aimed at promoting participation among vulnerable groups. The REC noted that INEC has engaged political parties to set up PWD desk offices, a move that has led several parties to integrate disability-related functions into their National Working Committees.
In a goodwill message, the Osun State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, expressed the agency’s readiness to partner with INEC to build public confidence in the electoral process. He stressed that democracy is only meaningful when inclusive and that every eligible Nigerian, including PWDs, has the right to vote and be voted for. He encouraged stakeholders to provide feedback to improve the deployment of assistive devices across polling units.
Steven Idowu, Osun State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), called for greater support for PWDs in exercising their civic rights. He urged all stakeholders to work toward a society where every voice and every vote counts. The workshop marked a significant stride toward inclusive elections, setting a precedent for future electoral processes across Nigeria.
Leave a Comment