The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive electoral participation, with a focus on ensuring that Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) are fully integrated into the democratic process ahead of the 2026 governorship election on 15 August.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Mutiu Agboke, made the pledge during a sensitisation and awareness programme organised by INEC headquarters in Abuja and held in Osogbo. The event centred on the devolution of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise to Registration Areas across the state, bringing the process closer to citizens, particularly those with mobility challenges.
Dr Agboke described the engagement as a critical step toward ensuring no eligible voter is excluded from the democratic process. “Democracy thrives when every citizen, regardless of physical condition, has equal opportunity to participate in choosing leaders and shaping governance,” he said.
He explained that decentralising CVR from local government offices to ward level was designed to make registration more accessible, enabling first-time voters who have turned 18 to register easily, while also allowing previously registered voters to transfer or update their details without travelling long distances.
The initiative, he added, aims to equip PWDs with adequate knowledge about registration procedures and encourage their active participation in the forthcoming election. To support this, INEC will deploy assistive devices such as Braille ballot guides, magnifying glasses, large print materials, and priority voting arrangements. Trained poll officials will also be available to provide necessary assistance, with relevant forms deployed to capture data and support voters requiring help at polling units.
In a goodwill message, the Osun State Director of the National Orientation Agency, Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, described the initiative as timely and vital to promoting inclusive democracy. “Persons with disabilities are an important part of our society, and their full participation in the electoral process must be encouraged and supported,” he said.
The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Osun State, Steven Oluwakemi, commended INEC for its efforts to enhance inclusive participation in elections. He stressed that voting is a fundamental right for every Nigerian, regardless of disability, and called for the expansion of accessibility initiatives, adequate deployment of materials, and proper training of electoral personnel.
“Inclusion is not a privilege but a right,” Oluwakemi said, adding that JONAPWD is ready to partner with INEC to build a barrier-free democracy for all residents of Osun State.
The programme drew participation from disability groups, civil society organisations, electoral officials, and other stakeholders, underscoring a shared commitment to ensuring that the 2026 election in Osun State is accessible, inclusive, and representative of all citizens.
