PWDs hold election, re-elects Ojugo chairman in Edo

The Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD) on Friday held its quadrennial elections in Benin City, with Ann Ojugo re-elected as the Chairperson of the association in Edo State.

In her inaugural speech, Ojugo vowed to work toward the establishment of a Disability Commission in Edo State to strengthen institutional support for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) as part of her plans for the new term.

During the elections, Comrade Ann Ojugo secured an overwhelming majority of votes cast by delegates across the six Disability Clusters and the 18 local government areas of the state, polling a total of 105 votes to defeat her fellow contestant, Emmanuel Omoike, who received six votes.

The election, which was conducted by the Electoral Committee headed by Mr. Victor Imahingbe, also saw Kingsley Osadolor emerge as Vice Chairman with 57 votes, defeating Matthew Akabue (34 votes) and Justice Odigie (18 votes). Mr. Ibrahim Momoh was also elected Secretary with 105 votes, while his rival for the position, Charles Omokaro, secured eight votes.

Other elected officials include Sunday Osagiede (Treasurer), Bartholomew Okudu (Assistant Secretary), Loveth Abokin (Financial Secretary), Wilson Ebague (Public Relations Officer), and Favour Ehigiamusoe (Chief Whip).

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Additionally, Dele Atole was elected as State Women Coordinator, while Ashia Vincent, Jacob Edeki, and Rachael Iyeke were returned as senatorial representatives for Edo South, Edo North, and Edo Central, respectively.

Speaking after her swearing-in, Ojugo emphasized that the Disability Commission would help the association drive policies, attract local and international funding, and ensure better welfare for PWDs in Edo.

Reflecting on the successes of her first tenure as Chairperson, Ojugo highlighted key achievements, including job creation for PWDs and disability-friendly infrastructure in government buildings. She also pointed to the new secretariat building as a symbol of progress and vowed to expand opportunities for PWDs in her second term.

Reaffirming her commitment to advocacy, she urged the government and society to recognize that disability does not define an individual’s potential.

“The government needs to be sensitized. We need to make sure that even if a person has a disability, that disability does not define who they are. It is society that defines who we are,” she said.

Ojugo thanked JONAPWD members for their trust and promised to work tirelessly toward a more inclusive Edo State for persons with disabilities.