Following the Ondo State Governorship Election held on November 16, TAF Africa has decried what it calls a “failure to ensure inclusivity for persons with disabilities (PWDs)” across polling units in the state. The advocacy group, focused on improving PWD participation in Nigeria’s political processes, called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently address the barriers faced by PWD voters during the polls.
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TAF Africa observed several lapses, including the absence of assistive tools such as Braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses, which are required by law to facilitate voting for blind voters and persons with albinism. According to Amb. Jake Epelle, CEO and Founder of TAF Africa, “The Ondo election exposed significant gaps in electoral inclusivity, despite the provisions laid out in the Electoral Act. We cannot claim true democracy if these barriers continue to exist.”
Epelle described widespread vote buying and inadequate priority voting for PWDs as major obstacles that further erode public trust in the electoral system. “We witnessed cases of voters receiving coupons from party agents, which they later exchanged for cash. This kind of electoral malpractice only deepens the exclusion felt by many,” he stated.
According to reports from TAF Africa, one incident occurred at St. David’s Primary School, Ijomu, Akure South, where voters allegedly received monetary rewards after confirming their choices to party agents. Similarly, at Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government, a little person was unable to cast their vote independently because the ballot box was set too high, limiting their accessibility.
TAF Africa further criticized the lack of Form EC 40H in multiple polling units, a document crucial for recording PWD voter statistics. “This is about more than just compliance. It’s about ensuring every Nigerian, regardless of disability, can participate in choosing their leaders. When we fail to document their presence, we fail to plan for their needs in future elections,” Epelle emphasized.
Calling for immediate reforms, Epelle urged INEC to improve election officials’ training on inclusive voting practices and to make polling stations accessible to all. “As we move forward, we must commit to a system that allows everyone to participate without hindrance. It is time for action, not just words,” he said.
TAF Africa also recommended increased efforts to curb vote buying and a redesign of polling infrastructure to cater to PWD needs, stressing the need for electoral integrity as Nigeria gears up for future elections.
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