We’ll introduce diaspora voting in next Senate, says Orji Kalu

Senate Chief Whip, Orji Kalu, says Nigerians in the diaspora will soon be able to vote from their countries of residence.

Mr Kalu spoke on Thursday night in Maryland when he met Nigerians living in the United States of America.

A statement by Mr Kalu’s media group quoted him as saying the next National Assembly would fashion a way to actualise diaspora voting to accommodate millions of Nigerians living outside the country.

“As a Nigerian, irrespective of where you stay or live, you should have a say in deciding who leads who.

“Therefore, in the nearest future, it should be possible for Nigerians in the diaspora to participate in our national elections,” the senator said.

According to Mr Kalu, he introduced dual citizenship in 1992 while he was a member of the House of Representatives.

“By God’s grace in the 10th Senate, we will introduce a bill that will allow Nigerians in the diaspora to vote for their choice of candidate.

“We cannot ignore the millions of Nigerians across the globe making a significant impact on the country’s economy and our overall development as a nation,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of effectively mobilising Nigerians in the diaspora, whom he described as critical components of the country’s development.

The former governor of Abia urged citizens living abroad to remain patriotic and committed to the country’s development irrespective of the current security situation.

“I am appealing to you all to always promote our country positively.

“Yes, we have challenges, but Nigeria is our only country. We must therefore unite irrespective of our religion, ethnicity or race,” Mr Kalu said. 

(NAN)