The Ogun State APC Deaf Support Group has declared its support for President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Senator Olamilekan Adeola ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing their commitment to persons with disabilities (PWDs) and inclusive governance.
The endorsement was announced during a press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) House in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where members of the deaf community gathered under the theme, “One Vote is Too Important to Ignore.”
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Ogun State APC Deaf Support Group, Abiodun Okoibhole Edusi, said the group decided to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates because of their contributions to the disability community.
Edusi said the deaf community and other persons with disabilities had for years been neglected and excluded from active participation in politics and governance, but noted that the APC administration had created opportunities for PWDs to participate in the democratic process.
According to him, the introduction of special leadership positions for persons with disabilities at ward, state and national levels has encouraged more members of the disability community to engage in politics.
He described the conference theme as a call for inclusivity, stressing that every vote matters regardless of disability status.
“In Nigeria, where PWDs often face barriers to voting, this message is a call to action for inclusivity and accessibility. Every citizen deserves to shape the future regardless of ability,” he said.
Edusi further stated that President Tinubu and Senator Adeola have maintained strong relationships with persons with disabilities and have consistently supported the community through empowerment, healthcare, education and employment initiatives.
He said the support group, which represents members across the 20 local government areas of Ogun State, is already mobilising deaf voters and other PWDs with Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to support Adeola’s governorship ambition in 2027.
“We will vote for all APC-approved candidates in the 2027 general elections,” he declared.
Also speaking, Bosede Adebayo, a trader, said the deaf community appreciates Senator Adeola for his support and empowerment programmes targeted at deaf persons.
“We are here to demonstrate our support for Hon. Yayi. He has been providing support and empowerment to deaf people, and we assure him of our full support,” she said.
Another member of the group, Sunday Zaiyo from Abeokuta, said deaf members across the state are ready to support Adeola because of his commitment to the development of the disability community.
The group also called on relevant stakeholders to ensure accessible polling units, provide assistive voting technology and train electoral officials on disability sensitivity to promote inclusive participation in future elections.
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