FixPolitics commends early voting bill, calls for quick passage

FixPolitics, a civil society organisation (CSO), has commended the early voting bill proposed by the senate.

On Friday, the bill seeking to introduce early voting for essential workers scaled the second reading at the senate.

The bill, sponsored by Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, senator representing Katsina central, aims to introduce early voting for essential workers, including election officials, security personnel, journalists, and observers.

Nigerians in this category are often unable to vote on election day due to the peculiarity of their duties.

In a statement on Tuesday, Anthony Ubani, executive director of FixPolitics, commended the bill’s sponsor and urged lawmakers to expedite its passage and ensure smooth implementation.

Ubani said the success of the bill is crucial in protecting the rights of all citizens to participate in the democratic process.

He added that it would reinforce the principle that no Nigerian should be denied the ability to vote due to the nature of their work.

“A robust and inclusive public hearing is essential to refine the bill further. Stakeholders, including voters, civil society, the media, and political parties should have the opportunity to provide input,” the statement reads.

“Key considerations include whether early voting should be extended to journalists, security guards, and domestic workers, as well as ensuring that implementation is transparent and effective.

“Additionally, this moment presents an opportunity to emphasize the importance of advancing Diaspora Voting.

“While this is a separate legislative issue, it remains critical for ensuring full electoral inclusion. We urge the National Assembly to give it the attention it deserves, alongside efforts to enhance the application of iRev technology in elections.

“Strengthening electoral integrity is crucial for Nigeria’s democratic growth. While incremental reforms like this bill are valuable, lasting solutions require comprehensive constitutional reform, even if it necessitates the emergence of a new constitution to be ratified through a referendum by citizens.”