AJAG Article

Abstract

To what extent are Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in emerging democracies allowed to participate in the
electoral and political process? This paper examines the implementation of laws, reforms, and policies related to
the participation of PWDs in Nigeria‘s political process. Despite recent efforts to improve political inclusion and
respect for PWD rights, there is a need to assess the impact of these reforms on PWD participation, especially in
light of the 2023 general elections. Using direct observations, semi-structured interviews, focus group
discussions, and document analysis, this study evaluates compliance with the Disability Law, reforms, and
frameworks. Challenges include weak inter-agency synergy, slow replication of laws at subnational levels, and
poor accountability, which hinder the effectiveness of disability-inclusive elections. Findings highlight the nonimplementation
of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in Nigeria, which calls
for accessible and inclusive voting procedures. The paper recommends enhancing political inclusion and
strengthening PWDs' capacity to participate equally in Nigeria‘s political process

2023 General Elections and the Political Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDS) in Nigeria, 2023, Vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 64-74. PDF