The Association of Yoruba Progressive Community (AYPC) in Munich, Germany, has made a strong case for Nigerians in the diaspora to have the right to vote in future elections.
The organization believes that millions of Nigerians living abroad should be included in the country’s political process and is calling for urgent legislative reforms to make this a reality.
Speaking on the issue, the newly elected President of AYPC, Mr. Akinlolu Olufemi Okanlawon, emphasized that disenfranchising Nigerians abroad limits their ability to contribute to national development. He pointed out that many African nations, including Nigeria, have political elites who dominate the system, leaving little room for outside influence.
According to him, allowing the diaspora community to vote would help break this monopoly and give Nigerians abroad a say in the country’s democratic process.
“The political class holds a monopoly over democracy, not just in Nigeria but across Africa,” Okanlawon said in a phone interview. “Until we unlock the power and influence of the diaspora, we cannot challenge this monopoly. Nigerians in the diaspora must be engaged in the electoral process to ensure a more inclusive democracy.”
To achieve this, he urged the Nigerian government to amend the country’s electoral laws and invest in voting technology that would enable citizens abroad to participate in general elections.
AYPC, established in June 2013, has been a vital force in uniting Yoruba people in Germany while also contributing to the welfare of communities back home in Nigeria. The organization recently held elections, and in addition to Mr. Okanlawon as president, the new leadership team includes:
Adebayo Apanpa as General Secretary, Monsuru Agoro as Financial Secretary, Yomi Cole as Social Secretary and Adeshola Salako as Treasurer.
Since the election in December 2024, the AYPC has embarked on several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Yoruba people living in Germany. Beyond that, the association has been involved in projects that support cultural preservation, unity, and economic empowerment within the Yoruba community.
As part of its broader mission, AYPC is affiliated with Egbe Isokan Omo Yoruba Germany (EIOYG), a larger Yoruba cultural organization in Germany. Both Mr. Okanlawon and the former AYPC president, Mr. Fatai Wilson, hold leadership positions within EIOYG.
In 2023, AYPC celebrated its 10th anniversary with a grand event, “Yoruba Cultural Celebration Day.” Looking ahead, the organization is planning more activities to promote Yoruba culture and community development in Germany and beyond.
With the increasing push for diaspora voting rights, AYPC remains at the forefront, advocating for a political system that includes all Nigerians, regardless of where they live.