Politics
THE Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) says the conduct of the Nov.16 Ondo Governorship Election demonstrates progress in promoting inclusive electoral practices in Nigeria.
Mrs Grace Jerry, Executive Director, IFA, said this on Friday in Akure while presenting the association’s report of the election to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ondo State.
Jerry, represented by Mr Segun Abiodun, Chairman, Persons With Disabilities (PWD) in Ondo, said that the conduct of the election was an improvement in the electoral process.
“The Ondo State 2024 Off-Cycle Governorship Election demonstrated progress in promoting inclusive electoral practices.
“Priority voting was extended to 70 per cent of polling units observed for PWDs and the vulnerable,” she said.
According to the executive director, 68 per cent of polling units during the election were set on flat surfaces, providing improved access for wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges.
“It was observed that INEC, in some pulling units, strategically positioned voting cubicles near ramps, further enabling accessibility for voters using wheelchairs or crutches.
“However, there are some persistent gaps that must be addressed to ensure full participation of persons with disabilities.
“IFA remains committed to advocating for an inclusive electoral process that guarantees the rights of PWDs and promotes inclusivity at all levels.
“There should be Improved polling unit set-up, INEC should ensure that all polling units are situated on flat surfaces and equipped with ramps or other necessary infrastructure.
“This is to accommodate voters with mobility impairments, ” she said.
Jerry also stressed the need for more awareness in future elections to encourage and inform PWDs.
“There is need to improve awareness to inform PWDs about the availability of assistive materials and encourage their active participation in the electoral process.
“We recommend collaboration with organisations of PWD’s to handle training sessions on disability specific modules.
“INEC should expand the provision of Braille Ballot Guides and magnifying glasses to all polling units to ensure that no voter is disenfranchised due to lack of accessibility tools.
“INEC should also begin to adopt guidelines on separate queues for PWDs and other vulnerable groups at all polling units,” she said.
Responding, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, INEC, Ondo Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), appreciated the association and PWDs in the state.
She, however, said that the recommendations of the association would be submitted to the concerned authorities for necessary action. (NAN)
A.I
Dec. 13, 2024
Tags: INEC Mr Segun Abiodun Mrs Grace Jerry Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola
