One of the leading Disability Advocacy focused Organization, TAF Africa has organized a training for Internally Displaced Persons(IPDs) Camp Coordinators to enhance their capacity on INEC 2022 Regulations and Framework for Voting by IDPs.
The training program which held on Thursday in Abuja was funded by the European Union through its Support for Democratic Governance in Nigeria focused on enhancing IDPs participation in the electoral process.
Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, Amb. Jake Epelle while declaring the event open, explained that the training became necessary to intimate citizens on some INEC policies that are not known to people.
“This is our first step of enlightening not only the coordinators but the general public about the role of INEC, and IDPs in the electoral process.” he noted.
“An IDP automatically becomes a marginalised individual because of poor awareness, One of such policies of INEC is that of the electoral framework for voters in IDP camps“, he added.
“As part of our efforts towards increasing awareness and knowledge on the rights of IDPs’ in the electoral process, the training aims to highlight key provisions made by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the smooth participation of internally displaced persons during elections” he stated.
“We intend to provide insightful discussions and practical strategies that will empower internally displaced persons to participate in Nigeria’s electoral process” he added.
The National Commissioner and Chairman, Outreach and Partnership Committee, INEC, Prof Kunle Ajayi represented by Mrs Dorothy Bello, Director, Gender and Inclusivity in his goodwill messages said that it will establish voter registration centres in Internally Displaced Persons camp IDPs and host communities to ensure their full participation in electoral process.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu had in September 2022, urged the commission to review the electoral framework for voters in IDP camps.
Prof Ajayi also said that the contributions and perspectives of IDPs were valuable.
Ajayi added that the Commission with collaboration of relevant stakeholders would mobilize resources and expertise to ensure that IDPs are adequately represented.
He pointed out that key elements of the Frameworks includes Voter Registration, Voter Education, Security, Sensitization And Data Collection.
Beyond electoral Participation, Mr. Ajayi informed that INEC are working to create opportunities for IDPs to engage in decision making processes at all levels.
“Their insights and perspectives are valuable and their experiences can enrich the policy making dialogue, leading to more inclusive and equitable outcomes.
