Nigerian communities in South Africa have appealed to the Federal Government to introduce Diaspora voting for Nigerians living abroad.
Mr Adetola Olubajo, the President of Nigeria Union, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the telephone from Pretoria, South Africa, on Sunday that such move would give Nigerians in Diaspora a sense of belonging.
“ We appeal to the Federal Government and indeed the National Assembly, to pass necessary legislation that will introduce Diaspora voting. Nigerians abroad contribute to the nation`s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through remittances amounting to millions of dollars.
“ In other democracies of the world, Diaspora voting is an integral part of the voting process and having practised democracy for more than 16 years, Nigeria should not be an exemption,” he said.
Olubajo said Nigerians in South Africa were proud of the nation`s democracy would celebrate the independence with activities aimed at bringing citizens of both countries together.
“ We have put in place some activities that will foster social cohesion between Nigerians and South Africans to mark our independence.
“As we celebrate the independence, we urge Nigerians to have an honest reflection on happenings in the country and the way forward.
“ The union believes that Nigerians should think of the country and come up with honest ways of moving her forward,” Olubajo said.
Mr Emeka Ezinteje, Secretary General of the Union, said that the independence celebration should serve as a rallying point for the nation`s unity.
He said that a united country would achieve greater heights in all endeavours.
“ The Nigeria union is happy to be part of the independence day celebration. We wish our country and people well and continue to pray for peace, unity and progress,” he said.