INEC Moves to Bring More Nigerians With Disabilities Into 2027 Elections

(INEC. Photo by The Guardian Nigeria News)

The Independent National Electoral Commission has begun working with disability groups and organisations to help more people with disabilities take part in the 2027 general elections.

The engagement focused on informing and mobilising eligible voters with disabilities so they are well-informed, reached effectively and meaningfully involved at every stage of the election process.

The acting chairman said the commission is committed to building an election process that includes everyone, is accessible, allows participation and responds to the needs of all eligible citizens.

She noted that laws and policies already support the participation of people with disabilities, including the Electoral Act 2026 and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act 2018.

The commission also has its own framework on access and participation of persons with disabilities in elections.

However, the acting chairman stressed the need for new and better approaches to voter education.

She said the commission must explore innovative ways to teach voters, including using disability-specific communication channels, community groups, radio, social media and other formats that work for people with disabilities.

The commission said its data shows 137,487 persons with disabilities were registered voters.

This includes 13,080 visually impaired people, 9,299 hearing impaired people, 30,561 people with albinism, 19,430 people with physical impairments and 54,941 people in other disability categories.

The acting chairman urged disability groups to take charge of the education process and reach their members with information about voter registration, getting PVCs, voting procedures, accessibility measures and other election details.

She said the engagement would help identify barriers to participation, share what has worked and agree on practical steps to be taken before, during and after the elections.

The commission has already introduced measures to improve accessibility for voters with disabilities.

These include Braille ballot guides, magnifying glasses, a special PWD form and sign language interpretation during vote counting activities.

The commission said this engagement is part of its broader effort to make sure people with disabilities are better informed and able to fully participate in the 2027 elections.