By Godwin Ajom
Discussions for a special Bill that will create women only constituencies that will run elections across Nigeria has taken the center stage.
Gender and Development Action (GADA), in partnership with the Canadian government and United Nations Women have joined forces via a recent town hall meeting held in Calabar Municipal, in a bid to promote gender equality in Nigerian politics.
The collaboration, according to stakeholders, aims to support the Special Seat Bill, a legislative initiative that primarily seeks to increase women’s representation in decision-making positions, across Nigeria.
The Special Seat Bill, also known as the Special Seats for Women Bill, is a House of Representatives Bill that proposes the creation of increased participation of women representation in politics.
The Bill requires a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate to be passed into law. Speaking at a town hall meeting held on Thursday in Calabar with the theme ‘breaking barriers, advancing women’s representation through the special seat bill’, Policy Expert Analyst, Richard Inoyo, said the Special Seat Bill is crucial for promoting gender equality and empowering women in Nigeria.
He noted that the bill aims to create temporary women-only constituencies, ensuring more women are elected into political offices.
Richard disclosed that the town hall meeting was put together to enable the public gather thoughts and opinions on why the bill should be passed, which subsequently will be taken to the National Assembly in June for public hearing and execution.
“By increasing women’s representation, the bill promotes gender parity in politics, leading to a more inclusive and equitable society. The bill empowers women to participate in decision-making processes, giving them a stronger voice in shaping the country’s future. Women’s participation in politics brings diverse perspectives, leading to more informed and balanced decision-making.
“Women in political leadership positions serve as role models, inspiring young girls to pursue careers in politics and other male-dominated fields. Addressing Gender-Based Violence, women in politics are more likely to prioritize issues related to gender-based violence, leading to stronger policies and laws to protect women and girls.
“Studies have shown that increasing women’s participation in politics can lead to economic growth, as women are more likely to invest in education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. Promoting Sustainable Development: The bill aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. By increasing women’s participation in politics, the bill strengthens democracy, promoting a more representative and inclusive government.
“The Special Seat Bill sets a precedent for other African countries, demonstrating the importance of promoting gender equality in politics,” Richard said.
Also speaking, Cross River State Commissioner of Commerce and industry, Dr. Abigail Duke called for qualified women whom she described as being close to the corridors of power, to join hands to make the legislation successful.
She advised that young women coming into politics should be humble, accommodating, willing to learn, and not be intoxicated by power. According to the Commissioner, some women have it as a habit of using political powers to fight, bully, as well as disregard standing orders and rules.
Her words: “Women should be allowed to go into politics, not just any woman but women who have been frequent in the corridors of power, women who do not just want power, but need it to better and pave the way for the younger generation of girls.
“We need women in power, women can deliver, don’t just give us anything but give us something of a voice in politics, women need to be equally represented. Some women whenever they go into power, they feel they have arrived, they feel too proud, pompous, and tend to misbehave. Political parties should not give opportunities to such people but people that have fear of God, humble can lead, accommodating, firm yet know what she is doing.”
Leave feedback about this