By Patricia Osegbue
Women from diverse groups in Anambra State on Saturday converged in Onitsha to demand the passage of the Special Seats for Women Bill, aimed at promoting inclusive governance and increasing female representation in Nigeria’s political space.
The rally, led by Hon. Mimi Ifeoma Azikiwe, who represents Onitsha North I Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, drew participants from organizations including the National Association of Women Journalists, the National Association of Muslim Women, and various political party women’s wings.
Addressing the gathering, Azikiwe emphasized the critical role women play in society, describing them as “the bedrock of every community” and key drivers of political mobilization.
She lamented what she described as systemic marginalization of women, noting that despite their active involvement in campaigns, they are often excluded from elective positions.
“When it comes to work, women are remembered, but when it comes to enjoying the benefits, men take over,” she said, calling for deliberate policies to correct the imbalance.
The lawmaker highlighted the positive impact of women’s participation in governance across several African countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, and Kenya, where increased female representation has contributed to progressive reforms.
She reiterated her support for the Special Seats Bill, urging women to support one another politically and financially, as men often do, to strengthen their collective influence and improve outcomes for women nationwide.
Azikiwe also commended the Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for his gender-inclusive policies, noting his administration’s strides in appointing women to key positions, including the recent appointment of a female Secretary to the state government.
Speaking at the event, the Onitsha North Women Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Lady Dr. Stella Epundu, praised the governor for appointing a woman as Secretary to the State Government for the first time in the state’s history. She stressed the need for greater inclusion of women in governance, both through elections and appointments.
Epundu called on the state government to provide more opportunities for women in the forthcoming elections, including nominations for elective offices and appointments to boards and other decision-making bodies.
Also speaking, the APGA Women Leader for Ward 9, Mrs. Aguonu Chinyere, and Chairlady of the National Association of Muslim Women in Onitsha, Mrs. Aderemi Bilikisi, expressed strong support for the proposed legislation.
They urged both federal and state governments to create more seats for women, emphasizing that increased participation would enable the country to harness the full potential of women’s expertise and leadership.
The rally ended with a unified call for swift legislative action to ensure greater gender balance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Patricia is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
