The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has assured Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), of an inclusive and harassment-free electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Oyo State, Dr. Adeniran Tella, gave the assurance during a sensitisation workshop on disability interventions and engagement with PWDs, electoral officers and disability desk officers in preparation for the elections.
Represented by a senior official of the commission, Mrs. Bose Agnes, the REC said the commission was committed to ensuring that no individual or group was denied access to electoral activities, stressing that persons with disabilities constituted an important segment of the voting population.
Also speaking at the event, INEC’s headquarters Deputy Director, inclusivity gender and inclusivity department Mrs. Habiba Jatto said the commission would work towards providing a level playing field for all voters, adding that the commitment to inclusivity would be demonstrated in practical measures before and on election day.
She emphasised that accessibility should extend beyond voting to the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), noting that PWDs must be able to collect their cards conveniently and exercise their voting rights without hindrance.
According to her, INEC has provided assistive devices to address the needs of voters with different forms of disabilities, ensuring that no eligible voter is excluded from the electoral process.
READ MORE: 2027: INEC Drops PDP from Kebbi Governorship List as APC, ADC Prepare for Showdown
She explained that the commission had three major assistive materials for persons with visual impairments, hearing impairments and albinism.
The initiative was commended by the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Oyo State Chapter.
