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2023 OFF-CYCLE POST-ELECTION PRESS STATEMENT

POST-ELECTION PRESS STATEMENT BY TAF AFRICA ON THE PARTICIPATION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN THE OFF-CYCLE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTIONS  Issued: 2:00 pm, Sunday, 12th November 2023. Location: Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo state TAF Africa undertook a comprehensive observation mission during the 2023 off-cycle election in Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo states. With a team of 30 trained observers deployed in each state; particularly in polling units with the highest number of registered persons with disabilities, our primary focus was evaluating the compliance of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with the deployment of assistive tools for persons with disabilities, access to priority voting in line with the electoral act as well as the overall experience of persons with disabilities at the polls. The specific assistive tools included the Braille ballot guide for the blind, large graphic posters for the deaf, and magnifying glasses for persons with albinism. In a positive development, there was a notable improvement in the participation and overall experience of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) during the 2023 off-cycle election, in contrast to the general election held earlier in the year. TAF Africa acknowledges the efforts made by INEC in enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for PWDs in the electoral process. However, our observation uncovered certain challenges and incidents that require urgent attention and remedial action. KEY FINDINGS:
  • Improved Participation and Overall Experience of PWDs:
We acknowledge the commendable efforts made by INEC to enhance the participation and overall experience of PWDs in the 2023 off-cycle election. Compared to the previous election, there was a noticeable improvement in providing necessary assistive tools and ensuring a more inclusive voting process.
  • Uneven Assistive Tool Deployment:
Despite the progress, there was uneven deployment of assistive tools across the observed states. Bayelsa state recorded the highest percentage of deployment at 61% based on the 30 selected polling units, while Kogi and Imo state experienced low deployment at 36% and 33% respectively, raising concerns about the consistency of INEC's implementation of disability-inclusive measures.
  • Person with Disabilities Voter Inducement:
TAF Africa notes with concern the recorded incident of PWD voter inducement in the off-cycle states. For instance, in St. Luke Sec school, Agudama Epie polling unit, Epie ward 1, Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa state, some party agents engaged in vote buying, thereby causing chaos and disorderliness in the polling unit. This challenges the integrity of the electoral process and emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance and enforcement of electoral laws to maintain a free and fair electoral environment.
  • Security Incident in Imo State:
A critical incident occurred in Dimoma Hall Amambaa polling unit, Ikeduru LGA, in Imo state, where gunmen dispersed voters. TAF Africa condemns any form of violence that disrupts the democratic process, and we call on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and take necessary actions to ensure the confidence, safety, and security of voters in subsequent elections. RECOMMENDATIONS:
  • Standardized Deployment of Assistive Tools:
TAF Africa recommends that INEC establishes and enforce a standardized protocol for the adequate deployment of assistive tools, ensuring equitable distribution across all states and polling units with registered persons with disabilities during elections. This will contribute to a more consistent and inclusive electoral process.
  • Enhanced Security Measures:
Considering the security incidents in Imo and Kogi states, we urge security agencies to enhance security measures to prevent and respond swiftly to incidents that threaten the safety of voters. This includes proactive measures to deter and respond to any acts of violence that could undermine the electoral process.
  • Strict Enforcement of Anti-Inducement Laws:
TAF Africa calls on political parties and relevant authorities to enforce strict penalties for voter inducement. This will help maintain the integrity of the electoral process and foster a transparent and accountable political environment.
  • Continuous Stakeholder Engagement:
We encourage continuous collaboration and engagement between INEC, political parties, security agencies, PWDs, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Regular consultations will facilitate the identification and resolution of challenges, promoting a more inclusive and accessible electoral process. In conclusion, TAF Africa remains committed to advancing the rights and inclusion of PWDs in Nigeria's democratic processes. We commend the positive steps taken by INEC and other stakeholders but emphasize the need for continuous improvement to ensure that no one is left behind in Nigeria’s democratic journey.   SIGNED: Amb. Jake Epelle CEO/Founder, TAF Africa Convener, Disability Inclusion Ni

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Consultant – Documentary Consultant

Job Title: Consultancy: Production of Documentary on the PWD Legislative Internship Programme Location : Abuja Employment Type : Contract Duration : 2 weeks TAF Africa is an independent non-governmental/not-for profit organization originally established to promote health, socio-economic rights, well-being, and empowerment of persons with albinism. The organization has since evolved to become a focus organization that advocates for the recognition and respect of the rights, socio-economic and political inclusion of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria and the around the World. The foundation contributes to legislative and policy action that promotes the rights of PWDs, and effective mainstreaming of inclusion. Background TAF Africa is seeking the services of a skilled and experienced documentary filmmaker or production company to produce a high-quality, compelling documentary on its PWD Legislative Internship Programme. Funded by the European Union through its Support to democratic Governaance in Nigeria EU-SDGN) programmes, the programme deployed 10 persons with disabilities (PWDs) as legislative interns to various committees within the National Assembly. The documentary will capture the impact of the programme on the interns’ personal and professional development, as well as its contribution to disability inclusion within the legislative process. The goal is to tell the stories of transformation, empowerment, and institutional progress resulting from this intervention — highlighting outcomes, challenges overcome, and future possibilities. Objectives To highlight how the programme contributed to shaping inclusive legislative practices and deepening the participation of PWDs in governance. To highlight how the European Union is entrenching disability-inclusive legislative practice through its SDGN programme. To amplify the interns’ personal growth stories, professional achievements, and the perspectives of mentors and legislative stakeholders. To inspire policymakers, donors, civil society, and the public through storytelling that affirms the value of inclusion. Scope of Work The consultant will be required to: Conduct interviews with interns, committee members, and other key stakeholders. Capture B-roll footage within the National Assembly and, where relevant, other locations such as the interns’ communities or workplaces. Film, edit, deliver and support the scripting of a 15–30 minutes documentary suitable for broadcast, events, and digital platforms. Provide subtitles and engage the services of a sign language interpreter. Submit a short promotional teaser and still photographs from the shoot. Other services provision: At the end of this assignment, a compelling documentary should be produced. Specifically, the following output will be generated by the consultant: One fully produced documentary (15–30 minutes) telling the story of the PWD Legislative Internship Programme. One trailer (1–2 minutes) for promotional use. A selection of still images from filming. All raw footage and project files are submitted on a hard drive or via cloud. A letter assigning all intellectual property rights in the documentary to TAF Africa. QualificationsThe consultant must have proven experience in documentary storytelling with a focus on governance, inclusion, social impact, or human rights. Demonstrated ability to capture and communicate emotionally engaging, human-centered stories. Access to professional-grade video, sound, and editing equipment. Ability to deliver a polished final product within a tight timeframe. Experience working respectfully with marginalized groups, particularly persons with disabilities, is highly desirable. How To ApplyInterested and qualified candidates should send their application to procurements@tafafrica.co with the subject line “Consultancy: Production of Documentary on the PWD Legislative Internship.”Applications must include: A one-page proposal outlining your creative approach to the documentary. Samples of previous work (preferably similar thematic or visual storytelling projects). A proposed budget or indicative cost for the project. Application Deadline: 16th July 2025 Diversity and Inclusion: TAF Africa strongly encourages applications from women and persons with disabilities. All submissions will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality.

DISABILITY INCLUSION RADIO: Learning Governance Up Close – PWD Interns Share Their National Assembly

Two of our PWD interns, Barrister Rex Eramah and Eunice U Nwokocha, joined our host, Jennifer Ogor, on Radio Nigeria (FRCN) to reflect on their journey so far; the lessons they’re learning, the systems they’re observing, and how this rare opportunity is shaping their perspectives as advocates for inclusive governance. With funding from the European Union in Nigeria through its European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria programme, we deployed 10 young persons with disabilities to the National Assembly for a 3-month internship programme. The goal is to expose them to legislative practices and processes while promoting disability inclusion within governance spaces. Now, nine weeks into the programme, these interns are not only gaining firsthand experience inside the House of Representatives but are also participating in fieldwork that connects policy to real-life issues. Join our next conversation live next week on Radio Nigeria and Facebook Live! Watch today’s show on youtube! https://youtu.be/15EcGzhQ3zs

Reflection Meeting on Finding of the Political Inclusion Index

In this episode, we opened the door to a conversation that’s both deeply personal for our guest and nationally urgent: Inclusive Education. In 2023, Nigeria adopted a renewed National Policy on Inclusive Education, a step that could potentially change everything if properly implemented. Keep a date with us on the 6th of June.

DISABILITY INCLUSION RADIO: Learning Governance Up Close – PWD Interns Share Their National Assembly Journey

Tomorrow at 10:00 am, two of our PWD interns will join us on Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria to reflect on their journey so far; the lessons they’re learning, the systems they’re observing, and how this rare opportunity is shaping their perspectives as advocates for inclusive governance. With funding from the Delegation of the European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS, through its support to democratic governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN), we deployed 10 young persons with disabilities to the National Assembly for a 3-month internship programme. The goal is to expose them to legislative practices and processes while promoting disability inclusion within governance spaces. Now, nine weeks into the programme, these interns are not only gaining firsthand experience inside the House of Representatives but are also participating in fieldwork that connects policy to real-life issues. Keep a date with us on the 11th of July. ALSO FEATURED: MAKING INCLUSIVE EDUCATION A REALITY IN NIGERIA with Shamsiyyah Umar – Watch, LIke, Comment Below!

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