The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has revealed that the Senate will deliberate on diaspora voting rights this week as part of the continuous review of the Constitution.
During a virtual diaspora dialogue, Bamidele highlighted the National Assembly’s commitment to reevaluating diaspora voting rights and other related issues impacting Nigerians abroad.
Bamidele, who had previously sponsored a motion for the Constitution’s review, assured stakeholders that the diaspora voting rights would be a significant aspect of the ongoing constitution review process.
He said, “Let me tell you some good news. Not that we are trying to bring the bill back. The bill is already on the floor of the 10th Senate. Exactly two weeks ago, we had the first reading of the bill. It has already been scheduled for a second reading.
“Definitely, as the Leader of the Senate, I can assure you that we will consider the second reading of the bill this week. After this stage, it will be referred to the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution.”
As the Senate Leader emphasized the importance of diaspora voting rights and greater inclusion in the electoral process, he acknowledged the bill’s progression through various stages. After the second reading, the bill will be referred to the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution.
Bamidele clarified the legislative process, stating, “After the passage of the bill, it will be taken to the House of Representatives for concurrence. Diaspora voting is a right that must be recognized in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
He urged stakeholders to engage with governors and Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly to ensure the bill’s passage into law, emphasizing the significance of diaspora voting as a generational fight and a crucial step toward electoral inclusivity.