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Tag: PWDs

  • Tolu Bankole calls for appointment of PWDs supervisors in all 774 LGs

    Tolu Bankole calls for appointment of PWDs supervisors in all 774 LGs

    Tolu Bankole, National Leader of Persons with Disabilities in the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on all 774 local governments across Nigeria to appoint dedicated Supervisors for PWDs Matters.

    Bankole in a statement said the recommendation, if implemented, will ensure the inclusion of PWDs at the grassroots level, particularly as democratically elected leaderships are now in place across the country.

    The National leader has long advocated for the political and social inclusion of PWDs, who represent a significant segment of Nigeria’s population. However, despite continuous appeals and engagements, the current structure in many local government areas (LGAs) reflects a concerning exclusion of PWDs in leadership and decision-making roles. To bridge this gap.

    Bankole suggested that each LGA appoint a Supervisor focused exclusively on PWDs issues—preferably an individual with a disability—to serve as a liaison between the government and the PWD community.

    “Local governments are the closest level of government to the people, and their policies impact daily lives,” Hon. Bankole stated. “Yet, many LGAs lack direct representation of PWDs in their leadership”.

    ” An appointed Supervisor for PWDs Matters in each local government, ideally a PWD, would serve as an essential voice for the community, advocating for their needs and ensuring that policies are implemented in line with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018.

    ” This is a crucial step toward addressing the prevailing exclusion of PWDs in our governance.”

    “The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act 2018 provides a clear mandate for inclusive policies and protections that support the welfare of PWDs across Nigeria.”

    Bankole further emphasized that this move would not only support PWDs but also contribute to Nigeria’s broader objectives of equity and social justice.

    He pointed out that the appointment of PWD Supervisors would create an inclusive environment at the grassroots level, where decisions and policies are often made that directly affect the lives of PWDs. “It is crucial to remember that true democracy includes the voices of all citizens, particularly the marginalized,” he noted.

    He also highlighted that a PWD Supervisor in each LGA would facilitate better data collection and reporting on PWD matters. This can drive more informed, evidence-based policy decisions that effectively address the unique needs of the PWD community. Additionally, it would empower PWDs to contribute to the economic and social fabric of their communities by ensuring equal access to employment, education, healthcare, and other essential services.

    He urged all LGA leaders and stakeholders to support this critical initiative, which will mark a significant step toward building an inclusive, equitable society for all Nigerians. “Appointing PWD Supervisors across Nigeria’s LGAs will reflect a national commitment to dignity, respect, and opportunity for every Nigerian,” he stated.

  • Tolu Bankole advocates for political inclusion of PWDs in LG Administration

    Tolu Bankole advocates for political inclusion of PWDs in LG Administration

    The All Progressives Congress National Leader, Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), Tolu Bankole advocates for the political inclusion of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the forthcoming local government elections and administration across the country.

    Bankole in a statement he personally signed stated that it is not just a matter of justice and equality but also a significant step towards enriching our democratic processes and governance structures.

    He said, “The Discrimination Against Persons With Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, offers a comprehensive framework for the protection and inclusion of PWDs in all spheres of public life, including political participation.

    ” Specifically, Section 25 of the Act mandates the right of PWDs to participate in political activities on an equal basis with others. It explicitly prohibits any form of discrimination against PWDs in electoral processes and ensures their right to vote and be voted for.

    “Moreover, Section 29 of the Act calls for reasonable accommodation and accessibility measures to ensure that PWDs can participate fully in political and public life. These provisions underline the importance of creating an inclusive political environment where PWDs can contribute their unique perspectives and skills to the governance of our local communities.

    “The inclusion of PWDs in the political arena yields numerous benefits, both for the individuals involved and for society at large:

    ” Diverse Perspectives: PWDs bring valuable insights and experiences that can enrich policy discussions and lead to more comprehensive and effective governance. Their participation ensures that the needs and rights of a significant portion of our population are represented and addressed.

    “Social Cohesion: Promoting the political inclusion of PWDs fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment among individuals with disabilities. It signals to society that everyone, regardless of their physical or mental abilities, has a vital role to play in the development of our communities.

    He noted that when PWDs are involved in decision-making processes, policies and programs are more likely to address the diverse needs of all citizens.

    “This leads to more inclusive and effective public services, benefiting the entire community.

    ” I urge your Excellencies to take proactive steps to ensure that PWDs are not only included but actively encouraged to participate in the upcoming local government elections. This can be achieved through your overt support to PWD candidates, mentorship and appointment into leadership positions.

    “In light of the current climate, I also urge all citizens to exercise restraint in the planned nationwide protests. While it is crucial to express our grievances and demand accountability, it is equally important to ensure that our actions do not escalate into violence or unrest. Peaceful and constructive dialogue remains the most effective way to bring about meaningful change.”

     

  • Over 400 PWDs households receive cash intervention programme under Ganduje

    Over 400 PWDs households receive cash intervention programme under Ganduje

    The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje through the office of the National Leader, Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) has approved cash palliative support to over 400 PWDs’ households across the country.

    The APC National Leader, PWDs, Aare Tolu Bankole disclosed this in a statement Thursday, May 2 after hundreds of PWDs called to show gratitude for the timely intervention.

    According to the party chieftain, the national chairman’s approval is a testament of his love for Persons With Disabilities beyond rhetorics during this period when the most vulnerable Nigerians need all the supports.

    “I am pleased that over 400 households have benefited from the ongoing cash intervention programme under our PWDs friendly National Chairman, Dr Umar Abdullahi Ganduje. This is just the beginning of PWDs inclusion in our party and more vulnerable Nigerians will benefit from this programme.

    “The APC have been proactive in providing the much needed succor to PWDs men, women, their children, elderly, and the most vulnerable members of our society. In addition to this cash intervention programme, we have taken several initiatives to support our citizens during these challenging times.

    “We recognise the impact of current economic inflation and this timely intervention is to mitigate its effects. Our party at all levels have made concerted efforts to cushion the impact of the inflation experienced in the economy recently. We are aware of the decisive steps taken by our President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to free our economy and reposition our country. The good news is that the economy is showing signs of improvement, with the naira appreciating at a remarkable speed.

    “All Progressives Congress, led by our PWDs friendly National Chairman has proven to be the preferred options for inclusive development and remains committed to the welfare and well-being of Nigerians.”

    The cash intervention programme is part of APC palliative to its members which has seen thousands of households benefit but this phase is targeted at over 400 PWDs households who received alert today, May 2, and will see more PWDs households across the 774 local government areas in the 36 states and federal capital territory benefit.

     

  • IDPD 2023: Tolu Bankole seeks better data on persons with disability inclusion

    IDPD 2023: Tolu Bankole seeks better data on persons with disability inclusion

    As the world marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities today, the National Leader, All Progressives Congress (APC), Persons With Disabilities (PWDS), Tolu Bankole has called on the Federal Government to make a definite statement on the conduct of Census so as to produce better data on disability inclusion.

    Bankole also joined in the commemoration and recognizes essential contributions of over 30 million Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.

    The International theme of this year is: “United in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs for, with and by Persons With Disabilities.”

    The theme is a stake reminder to invest in Persons With Disabilities if the SDGs will ever be achieved.

    The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

    Bankole in a statement issued on Sunday, said this year’s observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities has been dedicated to inclusion of PWDs in the 17 SDGs, in the respective countries.

    “APC led administration under our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has particularly played an important role in tackling the range of challenges confronting Persons With Disabilities in Nigeria since assuming office on May 29th this year.

    “We have witnessed political inclusion of PWDs at the cabinet level and as Senior Special Assistant. Also, PWDs have been given a deserving voice in the Renewed Hope Social Programmes of President Tinubu’s administration, as we look forward to monthly cash transfers to the poorest, non interest loans to traders, and other economic empowerment programs to alleviate the plight of PWDs in Nigeria.

    “The commitment and ceaseless efforts of the first lady, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu to wipe away the tears of vulnerable Nigerians is most appreciated. The feedback from across the country shows that her symphony is hitting the right notes among PWDs.

    “The All Progressives Congress, APC led by our result oriented and action packed chairman, H.E. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje PhD is committed to championing the cause of PWDs in Nigeria. Hence, the party will continue to remain the darling of PWDs through strong and consistent advocacy for the inclusion and improvement of lives of PWDs at all levels. Indeed, our amiable National chairman is not joking, but working. ”

    ” I called on the Federal Government to make a definite statement on the conduct of Census because producing better data on disability inclusion is vital to deliver the greatest impact.

    ” Let me commend the federal government on its achievement on security since the past few months.
    The security situation is looking better and this must be sustained.

    ” I salute the doggedness and resilience of the armed forces in combating insecurity. We encourage the government to do more in supporting the families of all our fallen heroes.

    ” The retention and sustainability of the Nigerian nation is the business of all.” Finally, I celebrate all PWDs for their resilience and doggedness. No doubt we are people with determination not disability.

    ” The brighter tomorrow envisioned in the SDGs is one that must be co-created.”

  • FG has dedicated 10% of social interventions to PwDs – Minister

    FG has dedicated 10% of social interventions to PwDs – Minister

    The Federal Government has dedicated 10 per cent of its various social interventions to Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), according to Dr Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

    Edu revealed this in Abuja while inaugurating various empowerment programmes sponsored by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD).

    She said President Bola Tinubu had directed that the disability community should be given priority in all intervention programmes of government.

    ”Mr President has instructed that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation should dedicate 10 per cent of all humanitarian and poverty alleviation interventions to persons with disabilities.

    ”Today is the flag-off of the empowerment of people living with disability.

    “Already, we are into conditional cash transfers for 15 million households; out of this figure, 10 per cent is reserved for the disability community.

    ”So, we are happy and very proud of the disability commission for pushing on all fronts to ensure that the Renewed Hope Agenda is actually achieved.

    ”We are providing POS machines to persons with disability across Nigeria so that they can be the last mile distributors of the funds to people living in villages and hard-to-reach areas,” she said.

    The minister also announced the donation of N100,000 to each beneficiary of the POS machines to help them kick-start their businesses.

    ”We have also provided not just the POS machines, but the N100,000 capital for them.

    ”We also gave N130,000 each, as scholarship to some physically challenged students in tertiary institutions.

    “Beyond this, we have also been able to bring officials of the Corporate Affairs Commission here to carry out proper registration of their businesses. About N20 million has been released for that purpose.

    ”Rather than begging, the PwDs will be running businesses that will empower them, their society and everyone around them.

    “We are having several other interventions like giving out grants to associations that deal with disabilities,” she said.

    Edu said that the federal government was committed to supporting the educational needs of Nigerians, including persons with disabilities.

    Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the commission, Mr James Lalu, had said that the gesture was aimed at empowering the disability community to become economically self-reliant.

    The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Disabilities, Mr Bashiru Dauda, assured Nigerians that his team would ensure effective legal framework that would protect the right of PwDs in Nigeria.

    Mrs Ruth Ofomo, the representative from the Bank of Industry (BOI), said the bank had provided a micro credit loan of N10 million to small scale business holders.

    Ofomo said the loan should be accessed without any form of discrimination.

    0n his part, Mr Abba Isa, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Disability matters, said that there are about 31 million persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

    Isa challenged stakeholders to support efforts toward including PwDs in governance and other social interventions.

    The event featured presentation of scholarship awards to students living with disabilities.

  • Nasarawa Govt approves 5% employment slots for PWDs

    Nasarawa Govt approves 5% employment slots for PWDs

    Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has approved five per cent employment slots for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the state.

    This is contained in a statement by Ms Abigail Waya, Head of Civil Service (HoCS) in the state and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lafia.

    According to Waya, the approval became necessary in furtherance to the commitment of the Sule led  administration and recognition of the importance of providing equal opportunities for all residents of the state.

    The HoCS said that the governor had already directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to henceforth reserve five per cent of every recruitment exercise for PWDs.

    She, however, said that the PWDs must have the necessary academic qualifications for the vacancies that exist.

    “This directive is in accordance with the domesticated Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act of the state signed in 2018.

    “It is aimed at ensuring that individuals with disabilities are given fair access to government employment.

    “Accordingly, I am pleased to convey the directive of the governor to MDAs who are expected to implement it with utmost dedication and commitment,” Waya said.

  • PWDs demand 5% of N5bn palliative approved for states, LGs

    PWDs demand 5% of N5bn palliative approved for states, LGs

    The National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities (NAPWPD) has demanded a five per cent share of the N5 billion palliative approved by the Federal Government for states and local government councils.

    The Federal Government has approved the disbursement of N5 billion to states, local government councils and the Federal Capital Territory as palliative.

    In a reaction, the National President of NAPWPD, Mr Rilwan Mohammed, in a statement in Kaduna on Saturday, appealed that five per cent of the fund should be allocated to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across the states.

    Mohammed explained that the demand was in tandem with the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Prohibition Act.

    He added that Section 25 of the Disability Law also provided that in situations of risk or humanitarian emergencies, PWDs should be accorded preference and protection.

    He also expressed displeasure that the PWDs were not carried along in the decision to support the states and the local government councils with the funds.

    “The disability law provides for a sharing formula to accommodate PWDs, who are usually excluded when they are lumped with other people during allocation of relief support.

    “It is to address this problem that we are asking for five per cent to be allocated to PWDs in line with the provision of the law,” he said.

    The president stressed the need for a clear template or clarity on how marginalised groups like the PWDs would be accommodated in the utilization of the N5 billion palliative.

    He noted that the association has been extremely disturbed and sorely worried over the suffering of its members due to the fuel subsidy removal by President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

    “The impact of the removal has continued to have a debilitating impact on PWDs who are largely poor and vulnerable.

    “The inability of PWDs to afford decent food, healthcare and necessities of life have been compounded and made worse with the recent situation in the country.

    “Our members now find it difficult to access public transport as the transport system is largely inaccessible and unaffordable to members of the disability community,” he said.

    He lamented the rapid multiplier effect of the subsidy removal on the price of goods and services, adding that the development was making life unbearable for the poor, particularly PWDs.

    Mohammed implored the federal, state, and local governments to tackle the challenges of public transportation and consider the peculiarities of PWDs.

    He said that for the public transport system to be accessible to PWDs, buses and other means of transportation should be fitted with adjustable ramps and handrails for wheelchair users.

    “The vehicles should also be fitted with signage and electronic display for directions with audio announcements for the benefit of the deaf and the blind.

    “All these are provided for in the disability law.

    “Our demands, therefore, are not based on charity requests but consistent with legal provisions,” he said.

    Recall that Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno announced the approval of the funds at the end of the National Economic Council meeting on Aug. 17 in Abuja.

    Zulum had explained that the measure was to cushion the effects of the subsidy removal on petrol.

    He, however, explained that the fund was on the basis of 52 per cent grants and 48 per cent as loans to be repaid to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) within 20 months by the states and local councils.

  • PWDs deserve a ministry – Adamu urges Tinubu to consider community

    PWDs deserve a ministry – Adamu urges Tinubu to consider community

    The National chairman of the rulling All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has urged President Bola Tinubu, to consider Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in his administration, saying that “if we can have a ministry of women affairs and youths. I think this Constituency is big enough”

    Adamu in a meeting with APC PWDs leaders across the six geopolitical zones and the 36 states including the FCT, promised to sit with the Federal and the state level to see what can be done so as PWDs can be considered both in federal and state appointments

    “However, I dont want to be promising every body something, we would try to see how governors can patronise in appointing you as board members and get at least one Commissioner. It will go along way for you to know that we care.

    “We would sit with the Federal and the state level to see what we can do along the prayers that one of us in the course of the interventions would be allowed.

    “Now there is also a preposition and I take that very seriously. If we do have a ministry of women affairs and youths. I think this Constituency is big enough.

    “The NWC will take what ever steps in appropriate way and when we meet the president to convey this message because for me it’s a message, it is not an assignment and it is my prayers we succeed, so that one of the Ministry will be for the PWDs.”

    Meanwhile, the PWDs in a communique issued at the end of its leadership meeting held at the APC National Secretariat, appealed to President Tinubu to tackle head-on by prioritizing the concerns of Persons With Disabilities which includes; financial inclusion of PWDs, accessibility and economic development and empowerment among others.

    “We call on the government to
    Provide conditional income support to very poor households. In exchange, recipients will be required to meet key human capital development goals like school attendance, healthcare and
    nutrition.

    “provide unconditional income support to elderly, extremely poor and DISABLED PERSONS, Create new job opportunities for
    young Nigerians from poor and
    underprivileged backgrounds.

    “Introduce new social investment
    programs supporting the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) particularly among the poor.

    “Our candid submission is that these investment programs will improve business productivity, widen access to affordable finance and capital markets and expand businesses such that beneficiaries can offer employment to others. These programs and initiatives will give priority access to PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES, women and young people”.

    The group further called on President Tinubu to create a PWDs Ministry saddled with the onerous task of ensuring strict implementation of the letter and intent of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.

    “Equally, all six (6) PWDs Zonal leaders, State and FCT PWDs leaders should be given both federal and state appointments into MDAs. This call will go a long way to ensure political inclusion of capable and committed PWDs leaders of our party.”

     

  • Tolu Bankole congratulates Tinubu, calls for Improve recognition of PWDs

    Tolu Bankole congratulates Tinubu, calls for Improve recognition of PWDs

    A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Tolu Bankole has congratulated the new President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, State governors, National and State Lawmakers.

    Bankole who is the APC’s National Leader of Persons With Disabilities
    (PWDs) called for improved recognition of PWDs in governance.

    Bankole made this appeal in a press statement signed by him on Monday in Abuja.

    He expressed his confidence in the ability of the new President to deliver on the Renewed Hope agenda towards an improved standard of living and economic prosperity for all Nigerians.

    He therefore charged all aggrieved opposition parties to put aside differences and join the new President in building a better Nigeria.

    “As Nigerians witness a momentous journey of the successful transfer of power to a new set of elected leaders, at both the federal and state levels. I join all Nigerians to celebrate this epochal era of Renewed Hope of political stability and economic development.

    “I congratulate the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, most heartily, for his doggedness, diligence, democratic resume and uncanny dexterity before, during and after the contentious general election leading to this phenomenal feat.

    ” I felicitate with the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, for being a part of history and the astute team who will deliver on the Renewed Hope in the next four years.

    “On this occasion, I rejoice with all the Governors; re-elected and newly elected, Senators and House of Representatives and States Assembly Members across the various states in our dear country on this historic occasion which has positioned them to itch their names in gold by delivering dividends of democracy.

    “I congratulate Nigerians for being witnesses to history.

    “The elections are over despite the ongoing legal tussle and the task ahead is so enormous than to continue unpatriotic rhetoric capable of distracting the new administration. All hands must be on deck to unite the country, deliver on security, power, economy, health, employment, education and other sectors in a timely, prosperous, equitable and inclusive manner.

    “I have no doubt that Mr President with his wealth of experience, Spartan determination and knack for spotting the best is ready to deliver Renewed Hope that will bridge the wide gulf between the rich and poor and ensure Nigerians have a better life, improve standard of living and economic prosperity for all.” Bankole said.

    He also noted that ” a delicate balance must be struck in handling the nation’s borders with a charge to Nigeria Custom Service to be more professional and deploy latest technologies for trade facilitation, clearance and security at the borders.”

    Speaking in the interest of the Persons With Disabilities(PWDs), he urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give them better recognition by including them as part of his cabinet Ministers.

    “I call for improved recognition and participation of Persons With Disabilities, PWDs in governance as cabinet Ministers and Managers in strategic planning and placements.

  • 2023 Elections Fallout: PWDs urge INEC to make elections more inclusive

    2023 Elections Fallout: PWDs urge INEC to make elections more inclusive

    …score INEC low on equal access

     

    Persons with disabilities (PWDs) have faulted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over poor inclusion and participation of the vulnerable population in the recently concluded 2023 elections.

    INEC was said to have failed to make adequate provisions for persons with special needs during elections. Suitable means of communication such as braille, large embossed print, and electronic devices to assist people with disabilities in voting were not on the ground or could not be operated by the staff of the Commission.

    Prof. Mahmud Yakubu-led election body had, at different times before the polls, assured PWDs of total inclusiveness in the 2023 general elections.

    The PWD community made their concerns known during PUBLIC CONSCIENCE, an anti-corruption radio programme produced by the Progressive Impact Organization for Community Development, PRIMORG, Wednesday in Abuja,

    During the programme, a disability expert, Chris Obiora Agbo, stated that persons with disabilities were disappointed with INEC’s inability to make adequate provisions for persons with particular needs to participate in the 2023 elections.

    Agbo revealed that according to reports from the PWD community, there was insufficient deployment of communication equipment to aid the participation of PWDs during the polls, noting that “INEC did not deploy braille ballot guides in many polling units he visited.”

    He rated the Commission low on the inclusiveness of PWDs, urging that training of INEC’s ad-hoc staff should be prioritized as their limited knowledge to operate the equipment provided contributed largely to the disenfranchisement of vulnerable persons.

    “They (INEC) didn’t keep up with their promise. We couldn’t find most of the braille ballot guides in most of the visited polling units. Many people with visual impairment complained that they couldn’t find those materials in their polling unit, and magnifying glasses there were also complaints about not having them.

    “And when it comes to priority voting, in some areas, some PWDs enjoyed it, but in so many other places, they couldn’t, and we attribute it to the elections not starting early, so there was a whole lot of apprehension when they began, and that actually made the electoral officers not to be coordinated to allow PWDs to enjoy priority voting.

    “We are disappointed by what happened. We engaged to the highest level; even the INEC Chairman had meetings with us, and he also made mention of issues of disability in Chatham House. We expected we would have been more accommodated in the 2023 elections, but it never happened.

    “INEC needs to do more on the training of their ad-hoc staff. They need to involve us (PWDs) in the training of the ad-hoc staff. There is no expert in a disability organization that will tell you he was involved in the training of the ad-hoc staff. They need to involve us so that they know what is expected of them,’ Agbo stressed.

    On his part, Communications Assistant at Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), Festus Okpeh, lamented that the late arrival of election materials and violence affected many people with disability from participating in the elections.

    According to Okpeh, reports from polling units across the country during the presidential election put the deployment of braille ballot guides at 53 percent. He also called for more training of INEC staff, stressing that there should be a remarkable improvement on security during elections so that PWDs will come out and exercise their franchise in future elections.

    He noted that the general impression of the election is that there were enormous challenges, especially concerning the presidential election, which they (IFA) actually observed. He stressed that INEC did not live up to expectations.

    “We saw the braille ballot guide, but the problem is not in the deployment but in the usage because we discovered that these materials will be in polling units, but they will not be used. The election officers are not equipped with the right information on how to make PWDs use them.

    “We noticed that the braille ballot boxes were deployed to about 53% of the polling units we sampled in the presidential elections but out of this, a negligible percentage was actually used, so there is a gap between deployment and usage.

    “There needs to be more training of ad-hoc staff, especially for them to understand that where materials are deployed, they have to be used.

    “So we demand that there should be much more education in this regard, and in terms of security, there should be enough security of PWDs to come out and express their franchise,” Okpeh stated.

    Public Conscience is a syndicated weekly anti-corruption radio program used by PRIMORG to draw government and citizens’ attention to corruption and integrity issues in Nigeria.

    The program has the support of the MacArthur Foundation.