By Uche Kalu
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Anambra State Chapter, has thrown its weight behind the proposed Special Seats Bill (HB1349), calling for its urgent passage as a pathway to correcting the persistent underrepresentation of women in political leadership across Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the Chairperson, Anambra State NAWOJ, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika in solidarity with the Nigeria Women Solidarity March held on Monday, February 16th at the National Assembly, the association described the bill as a deliberate structural reform aimed at ensuring fairness, justice and inclusive governance rather than a system of privileges or tokenism.
The women journalists stressed that the proposed legislation is designed to address historical gender imbalances in the legislative sector and strengthen democracy through equitable representation.
According to the group, the continued marginalisation of women in elective offices poses a serious democratic deficit despite women’s proven competence and contributions across sectors of national development.
“The Special Seats Bill provides a practical and strategic framework to bridge the gap and ensure inclusive representation,” the statement read, noting that empowerment of women in leadership positions should be viewed as a democratic imperative and not a concession.
NAWOJ further argued that genuine democracy can only thrive when all segments of the population are adequately represented in political leadership and decision-making processes.
The association called on female lawmakers at the national, state and local government levels to champion the bill, while urging senators and members of the House of Representatives from Anambra to support its passage without delay.
It also appealed to the Anambra State House of Assembly, political parties, civil society groups, traditional and religious institutions, and community leaders to publicly endorse the reform.
The chapter outlined plans to intensify advocacy within the state through stakeholder engagement, strategic media campaigns, and collaboration with women and youth organisations to sustain public awareness until meaningful legislative action is achieved.
“Inclusivity in governance strengthens accountability, enhances policy responsiveness and accelerates socio-economic development,” the group stated, adding that the current moment presents a defining test for Nigeria’s democratic growth.
The association maintained that supporting the Special Seats Bill would amount to voting for equity, inclusive governance and stronger representation for women nationwide.
