By John Dike, Osogbo
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring inclusive electoral participation, particularly for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mutiu Agboke, made this known on Tuesday in Osogbo during a sensitisation and awareness programme organised by INEC headquarters in Abuja.
The event focused on the devolution of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise to registration areas across the state.
Agboke described the initiative as a critical step towards ensuring that no eligible voter is excluded from the democratic process, noting that persons with disabilities remain an integral part of Nigeria’s democracy.
“Democracy thrives when every citizen, regardless of physical condition, has equal opportunity to participate in choosing leaders and shaping governance,”
He explained that decentralising the CVR exercise from local government offices to ward level would bring voter registration closer to the people, especially those facing mobility challenges.
According to him, the move will enable eligible first-time voters aged 18 and above to register with ease, while also allowing existing voters to transfer or update their details without travelling long distances.
The REC added that the programme was designed to equip PWDs with adequate knowledge of the registration process and encourage their active participation in the forthcoming election.
He disclosed that the Commission would deploy assistive devices, including Braille ballot guides, magnifying glasses, large-print materials, and priority voting arrangements to support voters with disabilities.
“In addition, trained poll officials will be on ground to provide necessary assistance, while relevant forms will be used to capture data and support voters requiring help at polling units,” he added.
In a goodwill message, the Osun State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, described the initiative as timely and essential for 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.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Osun State, Steven Oluwakemi, commended INEC for its efforts to enhance inclusivity in elections.
He emphasised that voting is a fundamental right for every Nigerian, regardless of disability, and called for expanded accessibility measures, adequate deployment of materials, and proper training of electoral personnel.
“Inclusion is not a privilege but a right. We are ready to partner with INEC to build a barrier-free democracy for all residents of Osun State,” he said.
The programme attracted participants from disability groups, civil society organisations, electoral officials, and other key stakeholders.
