By Aminu Dalhatu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged Electoral Officers and Disability Desk Officers in Zamfara State to collaborate with organisations representing persons with disabilities to identify and address barriers to their participation in elections.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Dr. Muhmoud Isah, made the call during a sensitization programme on disability interventions, involving persons with disabilities, Electoral Officers and Disability Desk Officers at the INEC State Office in Gusau.
Dr. Isah stressed the need to ensure that, concerns affecting persons with disabilities receive adequate attention in the planning and implementation of electoral activities.
He also encouraged representatives of persons with disabilities to share their experiences, identify practical challenges and offer constructive recommendations to help the Commission improve electoral access and participation across the state’s 14 local government areas of Zamfara State.
The REC said the engagement should not be regarded as a mere formality but as an opportunity for dialogue, learning, collaboration and the development of practical solutions to challenges facing persons with disabilities during elections.
Dr. Isah expressed confidence that discussions during the programme would strengthen cooperation between INEC officials and persons with disabilities and improve preparations for inclusive and credible elections.
He explained that, the programme was organised to deepen understanding of the challenges faced by persons with disabilities during electoral activities and identify practical measures to ensure their effective participation in the democratic process.
The REC emphasised that, the right to vote belongs to every eligible citizen, including persons with disabilities, noting that, disability should not prevent anyone from accessing voter education, collecting a Permanent Voter Card (PVC), reaching polling units or exercising their voting rights in accordance with the law.
He added that, ahead of the 2027 general elections, INEC would continue to promote inclusive electoral practices, accessible information, respectful treatment and appropriate assistance for voters who require additional support.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Zamfara State Persons with Disabilities Board, Bilyaminu Umar, commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its efforts to promote disability inclusion and improve the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Umar acknowledged the challenges faced by persons with disabilities during electoral activities and expressed hope that, the sensitisation programme would provide an opportunity to address their concerns and strengthen their participation in the democratic process.
He appreciated INEC for involving persons with disabilities in its activities and expressed optimism that, the engagement would produce meaningful outcomes towards ensuring more inclusive elections.
The meeting was attended by the Members of INEC, representatives of persons with disabilities, Electoral Officers from the state’s 14 local government areas, Disability Desk Officers, representatives of relevant organisations and other Commission staff.
Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
