Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, JONAPWD, Anambra chapter, has urged members to leverage on the 50% reduction in Expression of Interest/ Nomination Form fees by APGA.
It said they should use the opportunity to participate actively in the forthcoming local government elections.
Mr Ugochukwu Okeke, the State Chairman, JONAPWD made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday in Awka.
Okeke enjoined persons with disabilities to engage in the electoral process not only as voters but as aspirants, candidates and mobilisers at ward and local government levels.
He described APGA’s decision as a timely intervention that would lower financial barriers preventing many citizens, particularly persons with disabilities, from participating in politics.
He commended APGA’s National Chairman, Mr Sly Ezeokenwa, for what he called a demonstration of responsive leadership and commitment to inclusive politics.
According to him, the fee reduction aligns with the principles of equity and participatory governance.
Okeke said it also aligned with the provisions of the Anambra State Disability Rights Law of 2018 and the National Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2019.
“The forthcoming local government elections provide an opportunity for persons with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to grassroots governance, development planning and service delivery.
“We urge political parties, civil society organisations and electoral stakeholders to create an enabling environment through accessible information and fair internal party processes to support aspiring candidates with disabilities.
“We also call for a sustained commitment to inclusive political participation beyond the current electoral cycle”, he said.
The Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission has scheduled Aug. 29 for the 2026 local government elections.
