The Albino Foundation (TAF) Africa, a respected non-profit organization, has expressed its appreciation to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for successfully organizing inclusive governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States.
During a news conference, TAF Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jake Epelle, commended INEC and security operatives for their efforts in ensuring credible and peaceful elections. TAF Africa had deployed trained observers across polling units with registered Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the three states.
Epelle highlighted the significant level of participation by PWDs in the electoral process. According to TAF Africa’s reports, 80 percent of PWDs were able to exercise their priority voting rights in Kogi State, while in Imo State, the participation rate stood at 75 percent. Bayelsa State also recorded a commendable 67 percent participation. These figures demonstrate the progress made towards inclusivity in the election process.
TAF Africa attributed the positive outcomes to the successful deployment of assistive tools, such as braille ballot guides, EC30E PWD posters, and magnifying glasses. These tools were observed in a significant percentage of the polling units, with 77 percent in Kogi, 67 percent in Bayelsa, and 55 percent in Imo.
George Dominic, the program manager of TAF Africa, shared additional insights into the election process. He reported that accreditation and voting commenced in a timely manner in the observed polling units, with most units starting between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. The presence of INEC officials at the designated time ensured a smooth and efficient voting process.
TAF Africa’s commendation reflects the organization’s recognition of INEC’s commitment to inclusivity and compliance with the Electoral Act’s provisions for facilitating the participation of PWDs in elections.
TAF Africa called for continued collaboration amongst stakeholders, including security agencies, INEC, political parties, and their supporters, to uphold the gains achieved in inclusive elections. The organization emphasized the importance of promoting democratic values, ensuring equal access to the electoral process, and maintaining peaceful environments for future elections.
