INEC assures priority for PWDs, vulnerable groups during 2027 polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured that Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), the elderly and pregnant women will be given priority during the 2027 general elections.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ogun state, Mrs Feyijimi Shaseyi, gave the assurance on Thursday during a media chat held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Abeokuta.

Shaseyi said the commission had put in place measures to ensure inclusivity and ease of participation for vulnerable groups during elections.

She stressed that no eligible voter would be disenfranchised on account of physical condition or circumstance.

According to her, INEC has developed policies and operational frameworks to address the needs of PWDs and other vulnerable categories of voters.

She added that dedicated departments within the commission has been mandated to oversee the welfare and participation of such groups.

“The provisions include assistive materials such as Braille guides for visually impaired voters and support systems for those with mobility challenges.

“Adequate arrangements has been put in place to guarantee comfort, safety and dignity for vulnerable voters at polling units,”she said.

The state REC urged PWDs not to stay away from the electoral process, assuring that the commission was committed to inclusive participation.

Earlier, the NUJ Chairman in Ogun, Mr Wale Olanrewaju, said journalists remain critical stakeholders in the electoral process.

Olanrewaju noted that the media played a key role in promoting transparency, credibility and public trust in the electoral system.

He added that the union had continued to provide platforms for political actors to engage with the public on their policies and ambitions ahead of the elections.

According to him, such engagements, including live radio interactions, is aimed at strengthening democratic processes in the state and the country at large.