The Independent National Electoral Commission has reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring that persons with disabilities fully take part in the 2027 general elections. The commission noted that it is currently strengthening steps to break down physical, communication, and procedural challenges that hinder people with disabilities from voting.
According to Punch, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Gombe State, Umar Gajiram, made this known on Monday through the commission's Administrative Secretary, Fadimatu Bakari. The remarks were delivered during a sensitisation workshop focused on disability inclusion, accessibility, and electoral interventions held at Hajiya Amina Inuwa Gombe Hall.
Gajiram explained that all eligible citizens carry the constitutional right to cast ballots, regardless of visual, physical, hearing, or other challenges. He stressed that creating these interventions is only the first step, noting that the real work lies in making sure electoral staff effectively carry them out on election day.
The electoral body wants polling places arranged so that wheelchair users face no obstacles, people with visual impairments receive suitable help, and deaf voters gain direct access to vital instructions. Gajiram maintained that ensuring accessible voting is not a favour from the government, but a basic civil right.
Adding to this, Bukar Maikwada, an Assistant Director in charge of Youth at the INEC headquarters, shared details on the practical tools lined up for voters. He noted that the agency's efforts draw legal backing from Section 54 of the Electoral Act, 2026, alongside the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
Maikwada outlined provisions such as Braille Ballot Guides, magnifying glasses for people with albinism or low vision, and EC30 PWD Written Instruction Posters for deaf citizens. Educational materials will also be shared widely through audio jingles, posters, and Braille leaflets to prepare voters ahead of the 2027 exercise.
