From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to make provision for Nigerians living in diaspora to vote in elections in the country.
The proposed legislation, which is sponsored by the speaker, Tajudeen Abbas and Sadiq Ango Abdullahi, was scaled through second reading at Tuesday’s plenary.
Abdullahi, while leading debate on the general principles of the bill, stated that
Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) grants citizens the fundamental right of freedom of expression and opinion.
Consequently, he argued that citizens
irrespective of their location anywhere in the world should be able participate in general elections in the country.
According to him, since Nigerians in Diaspora contribute financially to the country through remittances, it is only fair and proper that they are given the opportunity to participate in choosing the leadership of the country during elections.
The lawmaker noted that “it is widely believed that diaspora remittances have contributed remarkably to the development of Nigeria. Nigerians in diaspora make considerable contribution 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 diaspora.
“Consequently, the agitation for voting rights for Nigerian in diaspora has continued to gain momentum. It is a practice that allows for holistic inclusiveness in a democratic society. ”
Abdullahi added that “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 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 diaspora to participate in elections conducted in Nigeria.”