- Labour Party National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, supported diaspora voting
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties have reacted to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) proposal to phase out Permanent Voter Cards and introduce diaspora voting.
While the APC welcomed the reforms, the opposition parties called for sincerity of purpose from INEC.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, stated last Thursday that the reforms, informed by lessons from the 2023 general elections, aim to improve the electoral system. He added that the proposals would soon be presented to the Senate and House committees.
APC National Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, said the party supports the reforms, emphasizing their potential to enhance credibility. “If INEC, after consultations, feels changes are needed to boost confidence in the electoral process, so be it. APC has always championed electoral reforms,” he said.
He dismissed concerns of rejection, noting, “Nigeria is complex to govern. While some may doubt the intentions, what matters is the acceptance of the majority.”
Labour Party National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, supported diaspora voting, saying it addresses the interests of Nigerians abroad but warned of potential abuse. “Many advocate for diaspora voting, and it’s a positive step, though safeguards are necessary,” he added.