The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Akwa Ibom State says it will ensure utmost adherence to fairness and credibility in the conduct the 2027 general elections in the state

The state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Anugbum Onuoha, stated this at a sensitisation programme for physically challenged persons in Uyo on Friday.

He said that the commission’s mandate was to conduct unbiased elections free from intimidation and harassment.

“We are doing everything possible to ensure that we conduct an election that Nigerians will be proud of,” Mr Onuoha said.

He urged INEC officials to provide necessary assistance to physically challenged persons who visited collection centres across the state to obtain their voter cards.

Mr Onuoha said that the constitution recognised the need to protect citizens from unfair treatment based on their circumstances.

Mr Onuoha urged electoral officers to ensure that physically challenged persons were carried along in the electoral process to ensure full participation.

“Just like we give priority to the elderly and pregnant women, please consider the the physically challenged persons too by allowing them to vote first,” he said.

Also speaking, the Director, National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Akwa Ibom State, Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, commended INEC for organising the sensitisation programme.

He said that the principle of inclusivity being promoted by INEC was an important element of Nigeria’s electoral framework.

He stated, “Government attaches great importance to the welfare of the physically challenged, that is why we are gathering today to discuss issues affecting you.”

The NOA official urged physically challenged persons to obtain their voter cards with the aid of trusted people, saying, ”no politician is authorised to collect your PVC for you.

“Do not allow anyone to deny you the opportunity to participate in elections, make sure that your vote counts,” he said.

Also, the Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Akwa Ibom State chapter, Aniete Jackson, thanked INEC for its efforts to strengthen disability inclusion ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“This programme is a clear proof that INEC recognises that democracy is incomplete without persons with disabilities. There is no credible election without inclusion. So we in JONAPWD assure INEC of our full partnership,” he said.

Mr Jackson said that the association would mobilise its members across the 31 local government areas of the state to collect their PVCs, and participate in the elections.

He urged INEC to sustain efforts to ensure accessibility at polling units by providing wheelchair access and Braille ballot guides for visually impaired voters.

Mr Jackson further called for the provision of sign language interpreters for deaf voters and visual aids for persons with albinism.

(NAN)