Anambra Election: PwDs, Elderly Get Priority as Soludo’s Polling Unit Records Massive Turnout

PwDs and elderly are being given priority as Soludo’s polling unit records massive turnout.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and elderly voters are receiving priority treatment at Polling Unit 002, Isuofia, in Aguata Local Government Area, the polling centre where the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate and incumbent governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, is expected to cast his vote.

Accreditation and voting commenced at 8:30 a.m., with 924 registered voters expected to participate. NewsOnline observed a significantly larger turnout compared to other polling units, as voters patiently waited under canopies provided for comfort.

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The polling unit, located in a residential area, recorded a notable presence of elderly voters and security operatives. Officials assisted senior citizens and PwDs through the process in a calm and organised atmosphere.

“Is this where Soludo will vote?” one voter asked, as residents eagerly awaited the governor’s arrival to cast his ballot.

According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Anambra State has 2,826,404 registered voters, with 3,456 identified as persons with disabilities.

However, TAF Africa Hub, an advocacy group for disability inclusion, has raised concerns over the lack of disaggregated data on Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection among PwDs. The organisation said many PwDs remain disenfranchised due to inadequate provisions for accessibility during elections.

“The absence of disaggregated data on PVC collection among persons with disabilities is worrisome, as such information is vital for inclusive electoral planning and participation,” said Dr. Amina Zakari, Chairperson of the PwD Election Hub at TAF Africa.

Zakari also noted that none of the 16 political parties contesting in the Anambra governorship election fielded a candidate with a disability — a reflection of the continuing gap in political inclusion and representation.