The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has organized a one-day sensitization programme for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Yola, Adamawa State, ahead of the forthcoming national elections. The programme, held on Monday, aimed to educate PWDs on the electoral process and address barriers they face during elections. The workshop was attended by PWDs and officials from INEC and Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs).
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, Alhaji Nura Mohammad, said INEC is committed to ensuring that no eligible voter is disenfranchised on account of disability. He stated that the commission has made adequate provisions to address various forms of disabilities, including Braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses for voters with visual impairments.
According to the REC, INEC has also provided Form EC30 PWD with written instructions and posters for those with hearing impairments. He emphasized the importance of obtaining Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) before proceeding to polling units to vote. The REC noted that INEC is working with OPDs and Cluster Heads to serve as a bridge between institutional provisions and community awareness for voters with disabilities.
The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Sani Sabo, thanked INEC for considering the plight of PWDs in its preparations for the elections. Sabo, represented by his Vice-Chairman, Mohammad Dalatu, expressed happiness that INEC has taken PWDs into consideration and pledged to take the sensitization to the grassroots to educate its members.
The sensitization programme is part of INEC's efforts to ensure that PWDs are fully integrated into the electoral process. The REC assured PWDs that INEC is ready to provide accessibility to all people with disabilities to polling units where they are to cast their votes. He encouraged PWDs to participate fully in the electoral process.
INEC's partnership with OPDs and Cluster Heads is expected to enhance awareness and participation of PWDs in the electoral process. The commission's efforts aim to address the challenges usually encountered by PWDs at polling units during elections. By providing necessary materials and support, INEC seeks to ensure that PWDs exercise their right to vote.
The programme concluded with a commitment from JONAPWD to mobilize its members to participate in the electoral process. With INEC's efforts to address the needs of PWDs, the 2027 polls are expected to be more inclusive. Key stakeholders are working together to ensure that PWDs are empowered to exercise their franchise.
Key points
- INEC holds sensitization programme for PWDs in Yola to address electoral barriers.
- INEC provides materials for PWDs, including Braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses.
- JONAPWD pledges to take sensitization to the grassroots to educate its members.
