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November 20, (THEWILL) -A Bill seeking to allow diaspora voting has passed second reading in the Nigerian House of Representatives.
Sponsored by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen and Sodeeq Abdullahi, the Bill seeks to amend the 2022 Electoral Act, to allow Nigerians in the diaspora to vote during elections conducted in the country.
It was referred to the Committee on Electoral Matters for further legislative action after it was passed for second reading in July. It was, however, referred to the constitution amendment committee for further legislative action on Wednesday.
Leading the debate on the general principles of the bill on July 9, Hon. Abdullahi had argued that Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) grants citizens the fundamental right of freedom of expression and opinion.
“All citizens, therefore, irrespective of their location anywhere in the globe should be given that right and freedom to express themselves in our country’s general election”, he said.
Speaker Abbas had explained that since Nigerians abroad meet their financial obligations to the country through remittances, it is fair and proper that they are given the right to carry out their civic responsibility of expressing their leadership preferences during elections.
“It is widely believed that diaspora remittances have contributed remarkably to the development of Nigeria. Nigerians in the diaspora make considerable contributions to the Nigerian economy through huge financial inflow to the country. Sadly, existing laws in Nigeria have not made any provision granting voting rights to Nigerians in the diaspora.
“Consequently, the agitation for voting rights for Nigerians in diaspora has continued to gain momentum. It is a practice that allows for holistic inclusiveness in a democratic society.
“Section 1 of the bill guarantees the voting rights of Nigerian citizens living outside Nigeria. The section provides that elections to be conducted under this Act if passed shall include elections in which the Commission is empowered by law.
“Section 4 provides that this Act if passed shall not invalidate existing laws in Nigeria. It only provides a platform for Nigerians in the diaspora to participate in elections conducted in Nigeria”, he said.
