The Ogun State office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, in line with its constitutional mandate, to deliver free, fair and credible elections in a peaceful environment ahead of the 2027 general polls.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Mrs Feyijimi Saseyi, gave the assurance on Thursday during a media parley held at the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Abeokuta.
She disclosed that the commission has introduced several online portals to address complaints, inquiries and requests from the public and stakeholders, eliminating the need for physical visits to INEC offices.
Saseyi explained that services such as transfer of voter registration, correction of personal details and revalidation of voter information can now be processed seamlessly through INEC’s dedicated platforms at no cost.
Speaking on inclusivity, the REC assured that Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), the elderly and pregnant women would receive priority attention during the 2027 elections.
She noted that the commission has put in place deliberate measures to ensure that vulnerable groups are not disenfranchised, stressing that every eligible voter would be given the opportunity to participate regardless of physical condition.
According to her, INEC has developed policies and operational frameworks tailored to the needs of PWDs, with dedicated departments tasked with overseeing their welfare and participation during elections.
“The provisions include assistive materials such as Braille guides for visually impaired voters, as well as support systems for those with mobility challenges,” she said.
“On election day, nobody will be excluded. We have structures in place to ensure that persons living with disabilities, the elderly and pregnant women are given priority at polling units.
“I want to encourage PWDs not to stay away from the electoral process due to fear or uncertainty. Adequate arrangements have been made to guarantee their comfort and safety at polling units across the state.”
Earlier, Ogun State NUJ Chairman, Wale Olanrewaju, said journalists are not mere observers but active partners in promoting transparency, credibility and public trust in the electoral process.
He emphasised the evolving role of the media as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, noting that journalists remain critical stakeholders in strengthening democracy.
“As journalists, we do not only see ourselves as stakeholders, but also as partners in ensuring transparency, deepening credibility and building public trust in our electoral system,” he said.
Olanrewaju added that the media has continued to engage political actors by providing platforms for them to articulate their visions and policies, including live radio engagements.
“This is unprecedented, not just in Ogun State, but across the South-West and Nigeria as a whole,” he stated.