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INEC calls for integration of PWDs in electioneering process in Nigeria
Dr. Mutiu Agboke, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State under the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has urged political parties and relevant government agencies to ensure full inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria’s electoral process.
During his address at the second consultative quarterly meeting with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and political parties in Osogbo on Wednesday, Dr. Agboke emphasized the importance of collaboration between INEC, CSOs, and political parties for the advancement of democracy. He stressed that democracy can only be robust and consolidated if no segment of society is excluded from the electoral process.
Agboke highlighted that PWDs represent a significant part of society, and their participation in the electoral process is both a legal and moral obligation. An inclusive electoral process ensures that every citizen’s voice is heard and valued, which strengthens the legitimacy of the political system and promotes a fair, equitable, and just society.
He noted that despite progress in legislation and international conventions, PWDs still face substantial barriers in participating in elections. Political parties play a crucial role in overcoming these barriers by adopting inclusive policies and practices to enhance PWDs’ electoral engagement. CSOs are also key in advocating for PWD inclusion, working to eliminate barriers, and promoting equal participation.
Dr. Agboke identified several barriers to political participation for PWDs, including physical, informational, attitudinal, and economic obstacles. He proposed strategies such as inclusive policy development, legislative advocacy, accessible campaigning, voter education, and collaboration with CSOs and government bodies to overcome these barriers.
He stressed that CSOs are pivotal in addressing the challenges PWDs face in fully participating in the electoral process, providing support through advocacy, education, capacity building, resource provision, legal assistance, and partnership building.
Additionally, Dr. Agboke called on political parties to support PWD candidates, ensure accessible campaigning, engage PWD voters, foster internal party inclusion, and collaborate with stakeholders, including security agencies, to provide secure environments before, during, and after elections.
He concluded by calling for a concerted effort to create an environment where every citizen can participate fully and equally in Nigeria’s democracy.
The Federal Government has announced the closure of the Eko Bridge and Ramps for eight weeks to carry out essential asphalt resurfacing work.
Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, shared this information in a statement on Saturday. She noted that the resurfacing project is set to begin on Friday, September 20, at 7:00 a.m., and will continue until November 20.
Due to the closure, drivers will need to follow detours and alternative routes. Kesha advised that motorists traveling to the Island from Funsho Williams Avenue should utilize the service lane at Alaka to connect to Costain and access the Eko Bridge.
She explained that some sections of the bridge will be fully closed while others will have partial access.
“This important project aims to enhance road safety and improve the driving experience for motorists,” she stated. The work will involve milling the existing asphalt and laying down new asphalt on both the bridge and ramps to address wear and tear and create a smoother, safer roadway.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has appointed Akinwale Sarafadeen Adeyemi as the new Chairman of the Governing Council for Osun State College of Education in Ila-Orangun.
The announcement was made in a statement on Friday by Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed. The statement described Adeyemi as an experienced educationist and noted that he will succeed Peter Babalola, the former chairman, who was dismissed by the state government earlier this month.
Babalola, who was also a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, faced suspension from his local ward in Irewole due to public criticism over alleged financial misconduct before his removal.
The statement highlighted, “Governor Ademola Adeleke has approved the appointment of Mr. Akinwale Sarafa Adeyemi, a seasoned educationist, as the new Chairman of the Governing Council of Osun State College of Education, Ila-Orangun. Mr. Adeyemi replaces Dr. Peter Babalola, who resigned following a controversial term at the college.”
Adeyemi holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Education from the University of Ibadan and is a retired principal of the Federal Girls College in Ipetumodu. His swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday at the EXCO lounge.
The police have reported that their operatives apprehended political thugs and seized firearms during overnight operations in Edo State, where the governorship election is taking place today, Saturday.
They also vowed to address illegal weapons possession and prevent any disruptions to the electoral process in the state.
Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, shared this information in a statement on Friday night, along with images of the recovered firearms.
He identified the arrested individuals as Edwin Obanor, 43, and Audu Tajudeen, a 41-year-old PDP member from Ugbogbo quarters in Igara Akoko, Edo.
“The Nigeria Police Force has made a significant breakthrough in combating electoral violence in Edo State with the arrests of Edwin Obanor, 43, and Audu Tajudeen, a 41-year-old PDP member,” the statement noted.
According to DAILY POST, residents of Edo State will be voting for a new governor today, September 21, 2024, who will succeed Governor Godwin Obaseki after his eight-year term ends.
Nigerian Govt shuts Eko Bridge, ramps for 8-week repairs
Gov Adeleke appoints new Governing Council Chairman for Osun College of Education
Edo Decides: Police arrest armed political thugs ahead of election
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