PWDs Urge Cross River Government to Schedule Local Government Election

Members of the Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) community, under the banner of TAF Africa, a non-governmental organization (NGO), have made a plea to the Cross River State Government.

They are calling for the announcement of a date for the Local Government Election in the state.

Dr. Jake Epelle, the Convener of TAF Africa, shared this appeal in Calabar during a workshop aimed at empowering leaders from various disability groups. The workshop focused on skillful and impactful advocacy to enhance their capabilities.

Epelle emphasized that it is high time the current administration in Cross River sets a definitive date and time for the Local Government polls.

He believes that conducting the election would aid Governor Bassey Otu’s efforts in advancing the state’s development agenda.

He stated, “We chose Cross River because we want to support the state through our project to have inclusive election, governance, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that will champion the cause of disability inclusion in its entirety.”

Epelle stressed the importance of unity among PWDs, highlighting that without unity, the community may not achieve their goals. He pointed out that some politicians might exploit divisions within the community to their advantage.

While TAF Africa has limited resources, Epelle expressed confidence that effective management and goodwill can achieve significant outcomes. The organization is committed to providing essential equipment for PWDs to actively participate in the Local Government polls in the state.

Epelle’s vision is for Cross River to become a pioneer in establishing a comprehensive and inclusive framework for grassroots governance.

Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, the Secretary to the Government of Cross River, pledged to facilitate communication between PWDs and the state government to ensure easy access and engagement.

He emphasized that disability doesn’t equate to lack of ability and that each disability holds potential and abilities within it.

Prof. Mike Oshie, the Chairman of the Cross River Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC), echoed this sentiment, noting that many PWDs within the commission have proven their capabilities when given opportunities.

He assured that the commission would work alongside TAF Africa to provide necessary equipment and refine their electoral guidelines to ensure the active participation of PWDs in the Local Government election.

PWDs who participated in the workshop expressed their appreciation, stating that it enriched their understanding of how to contribute effectively to society and engage in diplomatic advocacy to achieve their goals.

FRESHREPORTERS MEDIA reports that TAF Africa, formerly known as The Albino Foundation, serves as an umbrella organization for PWDs, advocating for their rights and inclusion on national and international levels through program design…[continue reading here]>>