Senator Yar'adua, YIAGA Africa Seek NYSC's Backing for Early Voting Bill

Abuja – The Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar'adua, and Executive Director of YIAGA Africa, Mr Samson Itodo, have called on the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to support a proposed early voting bill aimed at ensuring that Corps Members and other essential electoral workers are not disenfranchised during elections.

Speaking during an advocacy visit to the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, Senator Yar'adua emphasised the importance of inclusive electoral participation, noting that the bill would allow ad-hoc staff such as Corps Members, INEC officials, security personnel, and FRSC officers to vote at least one week before the main election.

“We must not continue to disenfranchise those who serve on election day. Countries like South Africa and Ghana already practice early voting. Nigeria must key into this reform to strengthen its democracy,” Senator Yar'adua said.

On his part, Mr Samson Itodo commended the patriotic role of Corps Members in previous elections, describing election duty as a vital aspect of national service. He stressed the importance of institutional backing from NYSC to push the bill forward.

In response, NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, expressed strong support for the proposed legislation, acknowledging the commitment and credibility Corps Members have brought to the electoral process.

“The proposed amendment will enhance the electoral process and give Corps Members and other ad-hoc staff a chance to exercise their civic rights. NYSC remains committed to promoting fairness, transparency and efficiency in elections,” Nafiu stated.

The NYSC DG further recommended a nationwide voter education campaign to boost electoral participation across the country.