- The senate committee on INEC meets the organization of Physically Challenged Persons ahead of Election
- The committee assures the group of its commitments to increase their franchise- a right to vote
- The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities calls for inclusion of sign language and the need for instructors at polling units on Election Day.
- An Electoral Reform Act is demanded by CCD to remove obstacles that bar people with disabilities from exercising their civic right
- The National Assembly has assured the group of its commitment to the course- assuring them of active “consideration”.
The chairman of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), Mr. David Anyaele spoke on the involvement of disabled people during electoral process. He also said that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) adverts should include sign language and the need for instructors at polling units.
Mr. David Anyaele added that 60% of disabled people are over the age of 18, so there is need to make provisions for them so that they can vote. He also said that the National Assembly should demand a disability plan from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)so it can be included in the budget. Mr. Anyaele went further to state the need to cover the disability gap.
Mr. David Anyaele pleaded that the Nigerian Senate mandates the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to review the polling units location and other infrastructure facilities so as to ensure access and balance in voting activities.
In the Reactions of the Legislators, Senator Hope Uzodinma noted that Mr. David Anyaele was absent during the public hearing on Electoral Reform Act but he should submit a full documentation of the needs of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD). Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi pointed out that the Committee is committed to reducing the disenfranchised and increase participation of Physically Challenged Individuals in the Electoral process.
Senator Sulaiman Nazif, in closing the interaction assured that the National Assembly is committed to the course and stated that whatever is to be done will be put into consideration. He also encouraged the Citizens with Disability, adding “we would try everything possible to support you”.
