Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua has called for the institutionalisation of early voting for members of the Armed Forces, other security agencies, and essential election duty staff during a visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
By Chimezie Godfrey
Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua has called for the institutionalisation of early voting for members of the Armed Forces, other security agencies, and essential election duty staff during a visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
The lawmaker, who is working in partnership with civil society group Yiaga Africa, said the proposed bill currently before the National Assembly is aimed at addressing the disenfranchisement of over two million personnel who were deployed during the last general elections but could not cast their votes due to their official duties.
“We are working to close the gap in our electoral process by ensuring that those who defend our democracy are not denied the right to participate in it,” Senator Yar’Adua said. “This bill provides for early voting ahead of general elections for military personnel and other essential duty officers.”
He extended an invitation to the Defence Headquarters to actively participate and make a formal presentation during the upcoming public hearing on the bill.
The Katsina lawmaker also informed the CDS about a second bill he is sponsoring, which seeks to establish alternative and sustainable funding mechanisms for the Armed Forces of Nigeria. According to him, the bill has already passed second reading in the Senate and will also soon be subjected to a public hearing.
In response, General Musa expressed appreciation for the Senator’s legislative efforts, which he described as timely and critical to the well-being and operational efficiency of the Armed Forces.
“These two bills you have introduced are not only commendable but also fundamental to strengthening the rights of our personnel and improving the effectiveness of our operations,” General Musa said. “The Defence Headquarters will provide its full support and will actively participate in the public hearings to give professional input.”
He reiterated the military’s commitment to supporting democratic reforms and ensuring improved service delivery to the nation.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to engage in initiatives that strengthen our democracy and build capacity for optimal national security operations,” the CDS added.
The meeting reinforces growing calls from civil society and within the legislature for electoral inclusivity and improved welfare for Nigeria’s military personnel.