The Nigerian House of Representatives has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to bring voter registration closer to the people in order to prevent Nigerians from exercising their right to vote in future elections.
The lawmakers’ decision came after the plenary on Tuesday approved a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Hon. Odebunmi Olusegun.
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In moving the motion, Odebunmi stated that it is INEC’s primary responsibility to register every Nigerian citizen aged 18 and up whenever the need arises.
He also stated that the INEC is now technically requiring Nigerians to appear in their office in order to be registered.
He expressed concern that encouraging citizens to congregate in a single location in the face of various social and economic challenges, as well as the apparent increase in the rate of COVID-19 spread in Nigeria, would put Nigerians at serious risk of contracting the virus.
The lawmaker also expressed concern that the action has discouraged potential voters who do not have the financial means to visit their office.
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The House mandated its Committee on Electoral Matters to ensure compliance after passing the motion.
