A total of 2,077 registered Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are expected to cast their votes in the upcoming Ekiti State governorship election scheduled for June 20, 2026.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said special arrangements have been made to ensure that voters living with disabilities can participate in the election without any difficulty.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Ado-Ekiti, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, said the commission remains committed to conducting an inclusive election where every eligible voter has the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights.
According to him, materials such as Braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses will be provided at polling units to assist visually impaired voters, persons with albinism and other citizens with special needs.
He stressed that disability should not prevent anyone from voting, adding that the commission has taken deliberate steps to make the electoral process accessible to all.
Amupitan also noted that issues such as voter intimidation and harassment must be tackled to ensure a peaceful environment for everyone participating in the election.
The INEC chairman further revealed that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate has now been included on the ballot following a review prompted by a recent Supreme Court ruling involving the party.
He explained that the commission had initially listed 14 political parties for the election, but the latest decision means the SDP will also participate in the governorship contest.
On election preparations, Amupitan assured stakeholders that arrangements have been completed to ensure voting begins promptly across all 2,445 polling units in the state.
He said early commencement of voting would help ensure that accreditation, voting, counting of ballots and the announcement of results are completed on time and under proper daylight conditions.
The INEC chairman also urged political parties, candidates, supporters and election officials to respect the terms of the peace accord and avoid actions that could threaten the credibility of the poll.
According to him, the goal is to deliver a peaceful, transparent and violence-free election where voters can freely choose their preferred candidate without fear.
Also speaking at the meeting, Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, assured residents that adequate security measures would be in place before, during and after the election.
He stated that security agencies are fully prepared to provide maximum protection and maintain law and order throughout the governorship poll.