Yiaga Africa, Centre Want Early Voting Bill Passed

As the National Assembly prepares to resume from recess, Yiaga Africa and the International Press Centre (IPC) have pressed for the immediate passage of provisions for early voting in the ongoing electoral reform process.

They argued that journalists, security agencies, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and Nigerians in the diaspora are often disenfranchised due to their assignments on election day.

At a consultative roundtable with media stakeholders in Abuja, Yiaga Africa’s director, Cynthia Mbamalu, described early voting as a landmark reform.

“We’ve never had early voting in Nigeria. This is essential for those who work during elections. It would enhance transparency, inclusivity and rebuild citizens’ trust in the process,” she said.

She stressed the need for reforms in appointing the next Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman, saying credibility, capacity and professionalism must guide the process.

Also, the executive director of IPC, Lanre Arogundade, lamented that thousands of journalists accredited for elections cannot vote.

“In 2027, a journalist registered in Abuja may be sent to cover elections in Sokoto. Technology can make early voting possible. The same applies to security operatives and NYSC officials,” he said.

On his part, Dr Tony Oyima, added that diaspora voting must also be prioritised.

“Nigerians abroad remit millions of dollars to the economy, yet they cannot vote. Early voting would address this injustice,” he noted.