Dr. Mutiu Agboke, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State under the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has urged political parties and relevant government agencies to ensure full inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria’s electoral process.
During his address at the second consultative quarterly meeting with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and political parties in Osogbo on Wednesday, Dr. Agboke emphasized the importance of collaboration between INEC, CSOs, and political parties for the advancement of democracy. He stressed that democracy can only be robust and consolidated if no segment of society is excluded from the electoral process.
Agboke highlighted that PWDs represent a significant part of society, and their participation in the electoral process is both a legal and moral obligation. An inclusive electoral process ensures that every citizen’s voice is heard and valued, which strengthens the legitimacy of the political system and promotes a fair, equitable, and just society.
He noted that despite progress in legislation and international conventions, PWDs still face substantial barriers in participating in elections. Political parties play a crucial role in overcoming these barriers by adopting inclusive policies and practices to enhance PWDs’ electoral engagement. CSOs are also key in advocating for PWD inclusion, working to eliminate barriers, and promoting equal participation.
Dr. Agboke identified several barriers to political participation for PWDs, including physical, informational, attitudinal, and economic obstacles. He proposed strategies such as inclusive policy development, legislative advocacy, accessible campaigning, voter education, and collaboration with CSOs and government bodies to overcome these barriers.
He stressed that CSOs are pivotal in addressing the challenges PWDs face in fully participating in the electoral process, providing support through advocacy, education, capacity building, resource provision, legal assistance, and partnership building.
Additionally, Dr. Agboke called on political parties to support PWD candidates, ensure accessible campaigning, engage PWD voters, foster internal party inclusion, and collaborate with stakeholders, including security agencies, to provide secure environments before, during, and after elections.
He concluded by calling for a concerted effort to create an environment where every citizen can participate fully and equally in Nigeria’s democracy.