Diaspora Voting: A potential boost for Nigeria’s democracy- Ubani

The campaign for instituting Diaspora voting in Nigeria has gained renewed momentum, driven by the Civil Society Organisation, #FixPolitics.

As the 2027 general elections approach, the organisation is intensifying its advocacy efforts to make diaspora voting a reality.

FixPolitics argued that enabling the Diaspora to would significantly enhance Nigeria’s democratic landscape by promoting broader political participation and improving thhe electoral process.

The Executive Director of FixPolitics, Dr. Anthony Ubani, emphasized the potential positive impact during a recent meeting with media executives in Lagos.

Dr. Ubani highlighted that Nigerians living abroad are often well-educated, experienced, and less susceptible to political manipulation.

He called for amendments to sections 77(2), 177(2), and 134(2) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution to facilitate diaspora voting.

Expressing confidence that diaspora voting could be implemented no later than 2030, Ubani noted that Nigerians abroad are deeply invested in the country’s progress.

He believes that their participation would lead to more informed voting, as these individuals are generally more educated, more enlightened and more exposed and therefore less likely to be swayed or deceived with a “mudu of rice” to sell their vote.

Ubani pointed out that over 115 countries allow their citizens abroad to vote, asserting that voting is a fundamental right that should not be denied to Nigerians simply because they live overseas.

He also noted the substantial economic contributions of the diaspora, which inject an average of $24.3 billion into Nigeria’s economy annually, making them a significant economic force.

Ubani argued that excluding the diaspora from voting is unjustifiable given their economic impact. He called on the government to leverage technology to facilitate diaspora participation in elections.

To further strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, Ubani stressed the importance of citizens engaging constructively with the government and holding political leaders accountable.

He advocated for prioritizing education and political awareness, as informed electorates are crucial for a robust democratic system.

Ubani also urged Nigerians to take active roles in democratic development, warning that passive citizens enable political exploitation.

He stated that FixPolitics theory of change is anchored on the Triangular Pillars Of Democracy.

He addee that FixPolitics is committed to working collaboratively to attain the three pillars of democracy in Nigeria, namely: one, emerge an engaged, empowered and enlightened electorate; two, build a new generation of values-based leaders who are disruptive in their thinking, listen to the needs of citizens and lead with demonstrable Character, Competence and Capacity and; build strong and independent democratic institutions that can execute their regulatory functions effectively.

Ubani argued that these three pillars need to be in place before democracy, good governance, human and economic development can become a reality in Nigeria.

Reflecting on the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy, Ubani criticized the capture of regulatory institutions by the political class.

He noted that entities like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the political parties, the Judiciary, etc have been captured and compromised – hindering their ability to function impartially.

“Politics in Nigeria and most African countries is broken which is why there is a deficit of good governance. Without good governance Africa cannot have economic development.” Ubani stated.

Continuing he said “African democracies struggle because of a preponderance of uneducated citizens, a deficit of value-based leaders, and the reality of weak compromised and ineffectual institutions,”.

Ubani concluded by underscoring the urgent need for structural reforms beginning with the 1999 Constitution in order to avert the collapse of the Nigerian state.