The 10th Senate has affirmed that it will revisit the Diaspora Voting Bill this week. The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele (APC-Ekiti), disclosed this during a virtual dialogue organized by Engage Diaspora Foundation in collaboration with the Directorate of Diaspora and International Affairs of his office. The dialogue, themed “A Pivotal Step Toward Achieving Diaspora Voting Right,” gathered momentum as it delved into crucial discussions.
Notably, the 9th Senate had previously rejected the bill on diaspora voting in March 2022. The proposed bill aimed to amend the 1999 Constitution to accord Nigerians living abroad the right to participate in the electoral process, exercising their voting rights as well as being eligible for election.
In his address at the event, Senator Bamidele assured Nigerians in the Diaspora that the 10th Senate is committed to exerting more effort to pass the bill this time around. He emphasized the significance of diaspora voting, deeming it a fundamental right that must be recognized in the country’s constitution.
Seamlessly weaving history with the present, Senator Bamidele acknowledged the efforts of those who had championed this cause in the past, affirming his dedication to advancing their noble campaign. He also detailed that the bill had undergone the first reading, with plans for the second reading to be deliberated upon during the current week.
Following the second reading, the bill will be referred to the Constitution Review Committee, chaired by the Deputy President of the Senate, with the Vice Chairman being the Leader of the Senate. Senator Bamidele reiterated his unwavering support for the diaspora voting bill, emphasizing its enduring impact on future generations and the imperative of upholding constitutional rights.
As the conversation unfolded, the Senator unequivocally emphasized the necessity of embracing greater inclusivity in the democratic process, resonating with the aspirations of Nigerians in the Diaspora. He underscored that the recognition of diaspora voting rights transcends current benefits, envisioning a legacy that resonates across generations.
With a renewed sense of purpose and advocacy, the strides towards recognizing the diaspora’s voting rights reflect a pivotal juncture in Nigeria’s democratic landscape. The upcoming deliberations by the 10th Senate signify a beacon of hope for the aspirations of Nigerians living abroad, as the clamor for this fundamental right gains momentum.
The process undertaken by the Senate collectively aligns with the evolving narrative of democratic principles in Nigeria, anchoring a foundation for sustained and inclusive participation in the electoral process. As the nation eagerly anticipates the outcome of these deliberations, an air of optimism pervades the diaspora community, underscoring the profound impact of potential legislative advancements. This marks a critical stride towards nurturing a holistic democratic ethos that echoes the voices of all Nigerians, irrespective of geographic boundaries.
