Nigeria’s legal framework for disability inclusion is solid, yet the reality for millions of voters with disabilities remains challenging. A recent Policy Brief commissioned by the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) and supported by FCDO highlights critical gaps between the Electoral Act 2022 and the conduct observed during the 2023 General Elections.
Despite the law mandating “reasonable accommodation,” barriers such as inaccessible polling units and insufficient training for staff persist, leaving many voters disenfranchised. Survey feedback from disability leaders and voters indicates inadequate access to assistive devices and numerous obstacles at polling locations. The brief emphasizes a need for actionable enforcement of policies rather than mere formulation, recommending audits of polling units, digitization of disability data, and comprehensive staff training in preparation for the 2027 elections.
Key Policy Implications:
- Legal compliance without enforcement undermines electoral credibility.
- Disability inclusion should be a standard part of election planning and logistics.
- Training for polling staff must focus on treating disability accommodations as a duty.
- Reliable data on disability participation is crucial for effective planning and outreach.
The gap between the existing legal framework and actual practice puts the credibility of Nigeria’s elections at risk. Public trust is fragile, and the lack of genuine inclusion can exacerbate perceptions of unfairness. As outlined in the brief, it is imperative that stakeholders transition from sporadic efforts to a coordinated, systemic approach to ensure disability inclusion is regarded as an essential element of the democratic process.
For a detailed exploration of these issues and the necessary actions to improve election accessibility, click here to read more:
https://jonapwdng.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Policy-Brief.docx
