KOSIEC, JONAPWD Partner on Disability-Inclusive Elections in Kogi

August 31, 2026.

By :Modupe Adegboro,

The Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC), in collaboration with the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), has organized a sensitization workshop ahead of the forthcoming October 17th local government elections in the state.

Declaring the workshop open, the Chairman of KOSIEC, Hon. Mamman Nda Eri, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in the democratic process. He noted that inclusive participation is a cornerstone of credible elections and assured stakeholders that KOSIEC is working to remove barriers that hinder accessibility.

The sensitization program, held in Lokoja, brought together representatives of disability groups, civil society organizations, and electoral stakeholders. Discussions centered on strategies to promote equal access, voter education tailored to persons with disabilities, and the need for collaboration between KOSIEC and advocacy groups.

Speaking at the event, the National Publicity Secretary of JONAPWD, Comrade Solomon Yahaya, commended KOSIEC for its inclusiveness in the election process, noting that persons with disabilities have been considered right from the planning stage through the entire process. He urged the Commission to provide assisting devices such as Braille Ballot Guides, Magnifying Glasses, and Form EC30PWD to enable persons with disabilities to fully participate in the forthcoming election.

Comrade Yahaya further encouraged persons with disabilities in the state to come out en masse on election day to vote for candidates of their choice. He also called on them to take part in active politics, stressing that beyond voting, they should aspire to become candidates themselves in order to represent their communities.

Hon. Eri commended JONAPWD for its partnership and advocacy, stressing that the workshop was part of broader efforts to guarantee that the October 17th polls reflect the voices of all citizens, regardless of physical ability.

Participants expressed optimism that the initiative would foster greater awareness and encourage persons with disabilities to actively engage in the electoral process.