Ned Nwoko, Senator representing Delta North, says he will initiate a constitutional amendment bill to allow Nigerians in diaspora to participate in electoral processes in Nigeria, to be able to vote and be voted for.
“I want to seek an amendment to the constitution that will enable Nigerians in diaspora to participate in electoral processes in Nigeria,” the statement reads.
“This includes: to be able to vote, to be able to be voted for, to have 4 permanent seats allocated to them in both chambers — one for those in America, one for Asia, one for Africa and one for Europe.
“The Nigerian diaspora, comprised of millions of Nigerians living abroad, forms a vital and dynamic part of our nation’s global community.
“These individuals maintain deep ties to their homeland and possess a wealth of knowledge, experience, and resources that can contribute significantly to Nigeria’s growth and development.
“In recognizing the importance of their engagement, it is imperative to explore avenues for their active participation in our electoral processes.
“This proposal seeks to introduce necessary amendment to the Nigerian Constitution, granting Nigerians in the diaspora the right to vote, the ability to be voted for, and the establishment of dedicated representation in the legislative chambers.”
original article first appeared on Cable