2023: Foundation tasks albinos on political participation
The Albino Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, on Monday, urged persons with disabilities to make the most of political participation as the 2023 general elections approach.
Jake Epelle, CEO/Founder, The Albino Foundation, made the call at a voter education campaign sponsored by the European Union, tagged, “Able 2 Vote (South-West)”.
The campaign was organised to reduce voter apathy to the barest minimum and promote the mainstreaming of persons with disabilities in the electoral process.
Mr Epelle said the time has come for persons with disabilities to fully take part in elections as a civic responsibility.
“The day has come and that day is now that all of us will rise up, take the bull by the horn and make the most of political participation of persons with disabilities.
“I charge you and I challenge you today. If this country is looking for a president, governor or a house of representative member, look no further because you’re the one.
“We have a wonderful opportunity before us. This is the fact that for the first time in the history of the electoral process in this country that persons with disabilities will constitute an adequate percentage of the entire electorate.
“There has never been any time better than now that this community is coming together. We are not just ready to vote, we are ready to be voted for,” he said.
Dr Uche Edimafo, guest speaker at the event, said It was not the size that determined champions but physicality and a positive mindset.
He further charged the people to look beyond their present condition and aim to achieve all that they dream for in life.
According to Mr Edimafo, there is ability in disability and the people should not give up or be intimidated until people with disability are properly recognised in the electoral process.
Also speaking, the Programme Manager, The Albino Foundation, Ndifreke Ferdinand, said there was a need to address issues of voters’ identity and chances to increase the presence of the physically challenged in the coming general elections.
“I urge you all, especially those that believe their votes do not count, to go and collect their voter cards so as to kill the spirit of voter apathy in the society,” she said.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Education
Plateau varsity suspends exams after killing of 200-level student by gunmen
Mr Ayuba said that the university had also declared a two-day mourning in honour of the slain student.
Lagos
Lagos govt. nabs ten fake enforcement officials
“The arrest was made in response to complaints registered at the ministry by concerned citizens,” he said.
Agriculture
Netherlands, Nigeria collaborate to enhance food security
One of the key initiatives is the Netherlands-Nigeria Seed Partnership, aimed at improving access to quality seeds and enhancing crop productivity.
Economy
Ogun government begins enrolment of 80,000 beneficiaries for FG’s cash transfer
She disclosed that over 80,000 households would benefit from the exercise in 192 wards and 2,681 communities across Ogun.
Education
Shettima urges academics to chart course for secure, prosperous Nigeria
Mr Shettima lauded the contributions of academics to national unity, adding that through their work, a more secure and prosperous country was possible.
Politics
Kwankwaso betrayed my trust; he’s attempting to hijack, destroy NNPP: Boniface Aniebonam
“I funded the party for 22 years, and Kwankwaso wants to hijack it even when he is not a member of the board of the trustees or the leader of the party,” said Mr Aniebonam.