In order to allow Nigerians residing overseas to take part in future elections and support the democratic advancement of their nation, the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NiDO)-Worldwide has encouraged the 10th National Assembly to pass a Diaspora Voting Bill.
Additionally, the group urged President Tinubu to endorse inclusive governance by signing the bill into law after it is approved by the assembly.
The call was made in Abuja during a Walk for Diaspora Voting event organized by NiDO to advocate for greater participation of Nigerians living abroad in the country’s election process.
Speaking at the walk, Mr Chibuzo Ubochi, the Coordinating Chairman of NiDO-Worldwide, emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution recognizes the right of all citizens of voting age, including those in the diaspora, to register and vote.
“We are Nigerians living abroad. We bear names like Chibuzor, Ibrahim and Ade, eat Nigerian food and run Nigerian businesses wherever we are. So, why can’t we vote?
“We hold our green passport wherever we go and we are proud of our fatherland.
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“One important thing from our past leaders in the country is that they support Diaspora Voting, so what is holding them back?
“This is because the National Assembly has yet to legislate it. This is why we are here—to tell them to do the right thing. Nigerians living abroad deserve to be part of the electoral process, especially at the prime of the ongoing Constitutional Review,” he said.
Former Coordinating Chairman of NiDO-Worldwide, Dr Victor Ubani, called on Nigeria’s President to set a historic precedent by signing the Bill when presented.
Global President of the National Association of Nigerian Students in Diaspora (NANS-DIASPORA), Chris Juwon Fayomi, praised the government’s efforts in sustaining democracy but said more needed to be done to ensure full diaspora participation.
NiDO is the umbrella body representing the interests and aspirations of Nigerians residing abroad.
