In a landmark move towards electoral inclusivity, the House of Representatives passed the second reading of a bill seeking to amend the constitution and allow Nigerians living abroad to vote in elections. The bill, co-sponsored by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen and Representative Sodeeq Abdullahi, aims to amend the 2022 Electoral Act to empower diaspora Nigerians to participate in the democratic process.
The proposed legislation has now been referred to the Constitution Amendment Committee for further deliberation. This follows its initial second reading approval in July, after which it was forwarded to the Committee on Electoral Matters for additional scrutiny.
During the July debate on the bill’s principles, Abdullahi argued that Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) enshrines the fundamental rights of freedom of expression and opinion. He emphasized that these rights inherently include the ability for all Nigerians, regardless of their location, to partake in electing their leaders.
“Diaspora remittances have significantly bolstered Nigeria’s economy,” Abdullahi stated. “Nigerians abroad contribute immensely to national development and should be granted the right to vote. This inclusion reflects the principles of a holistic democratic society.”
Section 1 of the bill Guarantees the voting rights of Nigerians living outside the country. It mandates the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organize elections that include diaspora participation while section 4 Stipulates that the Act, if passed, will not invalidate existing laws but will provide a framework for overseas Nigerians to cast their votes.
The bill’s proponents argue that granting voting rights to Nigerians in the diaspora is both a recognition of their economic contributions and a fulfillment of democratic inclusiveness. According to Abdullahi, “The agitation for diaspora voting rights has gained significant momentum, and it is time for Nigeria to join other democratic nations in allowing all its citizens to have a voice in governance.”
If enacted, the bill could mark a significant step forward in expanding Nigeria’s democratic practices, potentially setting a precedent for broader constitutional reforms.
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