- Bill for diaspora voting passed second reading in Nigerian House of Representatives
- Lawmakers debated the importance of extending voting rights to Nigerians outside the country
- Speaker Abbas Tajudeen and Rep Sodeeq Abdullahi advocated for democracy and inclusivity
A bill aimed to amend the 2022 Electoral Act to enable Nigerians in the diaspora to participate in national elections has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
The bill, which scaled the second reading on Wednesday, November 20 was co-sponsored by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen and Rep. Sodeeq Abdullahi.
During the plenary session, lawmakers engaged in a debate about the importance of extending voting rights to Nigerians outside the country.
Tajudeen emphasises importance of diaspora voting
Speaker Tajudeen emphasised that the move was a crucial step toward enhancing democratic inclusion.
Following the approval of the second reading, the bill was referred to the Committee on Electoral Matters for further consideration. If enacted, the amendment would grant Nigerians abroad the right to vote in presidential elections.
This development followed months of legislative progress, as the bill was initially approved for a second reading in July, after passing the first reading.
Abdullahi advocates for voting rights for all Nigerians, regardless of location
Recall that Rep. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi, who led the debate, referenced Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees citizens’ freedom of expression and opinion, pointing out that this right should extend to voting.
He argued that all Nigerians, regardless of their location, should be able to participate in elections.
“All citizens, irrespective of location, should express themselves in our general elections,” Rep. Abdullahi stated.
Speaker Tajudeen also highlighted the significant contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to the national economy through remittances, noting that they should have the opportunity to fulfil their civic duty by voting.
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Philip Agbese affirmed the House's commitment to passing the Tax Reform Bills with minor adjustments, emphasising the national interest.