The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) Anambra State chapter has applauded the recent approval by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for a 50% reduction in both the expression of interest form and nomination form fees for Councillorship and Local Government Chairmanship positions ahead of the forthcoming local government elections for persons with disabilities and women.
The National Chairman of the APGA, Bar Sly Ezeokenwa, had announced the reductions as part of the party’s efforts to encourage PWDs’ participation in Nigeria’s political space.
Speaking with our correspondent on Wednesday, the Anambra State Chairman of the JONAPWD, Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, described the development as a timely and courageous intervention that demonstrates responsive leadership and a clear commitment to inclusive, people-oriented politics.
He expressed delight that at a time when the cost of political participation continues to exclude many capable citizens, especially persons with disabilities, the disposition by APGA will significantly lower economic barriers and open democratic space for broader grassroots involvement.
“From an advocacy perspective, this policy direction is particularly commendable for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), who have historically faced systemic exclusion from political processes due to financial, physical, and attitudinal barriers.
“By reducing the cost of entry, APGA has taken a concrete step toward translating inclusion from rhetoric into action.
“We recognize this decision as being in alignment with the principles of equity, social justice, and participatory governance, as well as the spirit of the implementation of Anambra State Disabilities Rights law 2018, National Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2019 and global best practices on inclusive democracy,” Okeke said.
The Anambra JONAPWD boss called on Persons with Disabilities across Anambra State to seize the moment and actively engage in the political process, not only as voters, but as aspirants, candidates, mobilizers, and leaders at the ward and local government levels.
According to him, the inclusion of PWDs in governance is not an act of charity, but a democratic necessity.
He said, “Communities benefit when leadership reflects diverse experiences and lived realities. The forthcoming local government elections present a strategic opportunity for PWDs to contribute meaningfully to local decision-making, development planning, and service delivery.”
Okeke encouraged political parties, civil society organizations, and electoral stakeholders to further support the inclusive step by providing accessible information, fair internal party processes, and an enabling environment for aspiring candidates with disabilities.
