The future of Nigerian diaspora participation in elections is a significant topic of discussion that underscores the integrity and maturity of the country’s electoral system. Mr. Nyada, at the All-Party Forum on Youth Electoral Reform Priorities in Abuja, voiced concerns about implementing diaspora voting, citing the current electoral system’s readiness to handle such an initiative as inadequate.
He emphasized the importance of addressing the loopholes witnessed in the 2023 general elections and other yearly polls before considering diaspora voting. Mr. Nyada highlighted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should concentrate on enhancing its processes and rectifying existing deficiencies instead of introducing diaspora voting prematurely.
Addressing issues related to Bimodal Voter Accreditation (BVAS) and ensuring transparency in the electoral process should take precedence. Mr. Nyada pointed out that establishing a diaspora voting system would demand a reliable and secure technological infrastructure, which is currently a challenge for Nigeria.
A key aspect stressed by Mr. Nyada is the necessity to bolster data security and effectively identify Nigerian citizens before extending voting rights to the diaspora. He cautioned that flaws in the national identity management system could jeopardize the electoral process’s integrity without appropriate measures.
In conclusion, Mr. Nyada called for electoral law revisions to ensure all electoral concerns are resolved before elected representatives assume office. Prioritizing enhancements to internal electoral processes over significant reforms like diaspora voting raises crucial questions about consolidating Nigeria’s electoral system to safeguard the democratic process’s integrity.
External article link on the same subject: Pulse Nigeria