
By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
A two-day roundtable discussion workshop organized by Stand to End Rape (STER), a non-governmental organization, has brought together journalists, civil society organizations, community, and religious leaders in Borno State to discuss ways to increase women’s participation in politics.
The workshop, held at Amada YAnnex Conference Hall in Maiduguri, aimed to brainstorm on the possibility of having 30% or more women affirmative participation in politics and representation at the local, state, and national assemblies or legislatures.
Project Officer of STER in Borno State, Mrs. Patience Isa Saleh, expressed hope and confidence in the participants’ ability to provide formidable suggestions and recommendations towards the realization and actualization of government policy and inclusiveness of women representation at the legislatures and political offices.
Saleh also solicited the support and contributions of the media, emphasizing their pivotal role in society as a watchdog and influencer of public opinion.
The workshop discussed the August 2011 special seats for women in the Nigerian legislature bill, which aims to create additional special seats for women in the federal and state legislative houses. The bill, sponsored by notable lawmakers, including Hon. Nena Onocha and Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabamla, seeks to promote women’s emancipation and participation in politics.
STER Project Officer, emphasized the need for 111 special seats for women in the National Assembly and 108 similar seats in the State Houses of Assembly. This proposal aims to increase women’s representation in politics, ensuring at least 30% representation in all political offices, especially in elections and appointments.
Saleh highlighted the crucial role of the media in influencing government policies and decisions. She stressed that no organization or society can thrive without the media’s support. The media plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and informing discussions on women’s representation and inclusiveness in leadership.
According to Saleh, the representation of women in politics does not necessarily mean gender equality, but rather gender inclusiveness. She emphasized the need for effective advocacy by the media to promote women’s participation and representation in legislative circles.
Borno State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Abdulkareem Haruna, echoed Saleh’s sentiments, stating that the media can contribute significantly to raising awareness, investigative reporting, and feature writing. He advocated for collaboration and solidarity to encourage and empower women’s participation in politics.
The proposed bill aims to promote and project women’s interests, working in partnership with stakeholders to strategize and develop their talents.
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