By Jane Okeke
The Benin Republic diaspora community in Nigeria has mobilised support for presidential candidate Romuald Wadagni and his running mate, Mariam Chabi Talata, ahead of the April 12 election.
Former President of the Benin Diaspora in Nigeria, Hounkpafi Honore, who led the call, described the ticket as competent and visionary, noting that Wadagni’s tenure as Minister of Finance contributed significantly to the country’s economic growth.
He emphasised that diaspora participation would take place in 10 countries, including Nigeria, with designated voting centres in Abuja, Lagos and Ibadan.
Honore further underscored the shared heritage between Nigeria and Benin Republic, urging citizens abroad to unite in support of the candidates.
“The progress witnessed in the Republic over the last decade is remarkable and must be sustained,” he stated.
In her remarks, the Ambassador of Benin Republic to Nigeria, Berenice Gnansounou Bankole, said the decision to extend voting rights to citizens abroad was in line with constitutional provisions.
She disclosed that Nigeria hosts an estimated one to two million Beninese nationals.
Addressing security concerns, the ambassador expressed confidence in a peaceful electoral process, describing elections in Benin as traditionally calm and orderly.
