The Senate has encouraged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to allow registered and qualified prisoners to vote in all national elections.
Senator Abba Moro’s proposal on the privilege of prison inmates to vote in general elections in Nigeria was discussed in plenary on Tuesday.
They demanded that INEC ascertain the status of detainees who are constitutionally and legally qualified to register as voters and vote in elections.
They asked INEC and all relevant authorities to conduct a zealous voter education campaign in Nigerian prisons, informing inmates of their rights and the importance of exercising their franchise in general elections.
In addition, lawmakers claim that INEC should update its voter registration database to include the prison population for election purposes. INEC, in partnership with the Nigeria Correctional Service, should establish voting centers in detention centers around the country.
Also, the Senate recommended the INEC to allow duly registered and eligible jail electorates to vote in all Nigerian general elections.
