…as NGO holds 1-day dialogue on women participation in politics
A women-led non-governmental organization, Balm in Gilead Foundation for Sustainable Development (BIGIF), has called for the passage and implementation of gender quota laws in Ekiti State , to ensure increased participation of women in politics.
The NGO made this advocacy during a “one-day dialogue with non-state actors on gender quota and women’s political participation”, held on Thursday in Ado-Ekiti.
BIGIF lamented the low representation of women in politics, stating that this has hindered their ability to reach their full potential in leadership and decision-making roles.
Thev Executive Director of BIGIF, Tumininu Adedeji emphasized that gender quota laws would increase women’s participation in governance by ensuring their inclusion in policy-making, ultimately leading to more inclusive and balanced governance.
She also argued that women’s participation in politics could help reduce corruption and ensure greater attention to critical issues such as education, healthcare, and social welfare.
“We are calling on the government to pass and implement gender quota laws.
“Women’s political participation in democratic governance is crucial for several reasons. It enhances representation by ensuring that the perspectives of women, who constitute half of the population, are included in policy-making, leading to more inclusive governance.
“Women leaders often prioritize issues like education, health, and social welfare, resulting in more balanced policies and lower levels of corruption.
“WPP strengthens democracy by making decision-making processes more participatory and breaking down gender stereotypes, promoting equality and justice.
“It also drives economic growth, as gender equality in political participation fosters economic opportunities”. She said
A facilitator, Nelson Akerele highlighted some barriers to women participation in politics which include: lack of financial resources, political violence and intimidation, family responsibilities and the burden of care.
Others are: lack of support from political parties, limited access to education and information, weak legal framework, among others.
In his goodwill message, Daramola Owoola, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC), Ekiti State, urged women to challenge societal norms and actively contest political positions, regardless of opposition.
He also cautioned against vote-selling, emphasizing that it is a major factor hindering women’s political empowerment.
Similarly, Joseph Anifowose, Chairman of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), Ekiti State, encouraged women to align with emerging political parties with progressive visions, rather than established parties dominated by men.
The event brought together journalists, civil society organizations (CSOs), the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving women’s representation in governance.