THE PARTICIPATION OF WOMEN IN GOVERNANCE AND POLITICS
The participation of women in governance and politics is of strategic importance not only for women empowerment, but because it has wider benefits and impact (British Council Gender in Nigeria report 2012). Disadvantaged people and or groups can obtain fair representation only if they are present in elected assemblies. Based on the above therefore, women and men should be represented at decision making-bodies levels locally, regionally and nationally particularly where crucial resources are distributed and are allocated.
Nigeria has made several efforts to ensure the participation of women who are the excluded to participate in governance issues through the adoption and creation of some institutions that will facilitate the full participation of women in governance. However, the question here is, are these institutions and agencies fully implementing the charters and treaties to its convincing conclusion?
Even with the affirmative action of 35% representation of women in political and non elective positions in Nigeria, the number of women in the legislative houses is not encouraging as a result of the patriarchal dominance of the men in Nigeria.
During Governor Seyi Makinde campaign he gave us as women four rights as highlighted below:
Women’s Rights
1. Domestication of International Conventions on violence against women.
2. Ensuring gender balance in all decision-making positions.
3. Institutional framework for combating violence against women.
4. Appointment of women into government positions.
We appreciate our governor for all he has done but we are still asking for more.
Individual participation and involvement in governance to make a difference is more or less seen as an aberration of the norm and a misnomer
Oyo State is grateful to Your Excellency, for your distinguished leadership skills and traits shared and witnessed by us. Qualities of exemplary character, charisma, commitment, communication, competence, courage, discernment, focus, generosity, initiative, active listening, passion, positive attitude, problem solving, admirable person to person relationship, responsibility, security and safety consciousness, self-discipline, teach ability, vision, wisdom and servitude…
what else could we ask for?
Oyo State Women like Oliver Twist want more of participatory positions in order to contribute our quota in developing of our dear State.
We praise, bless and thank you immensely and absolutely our comrade governor. Above all, in humility. An orator extraordinary.
May Jehovah continue to shower His Grace upon our gracious first lady, Her Excellency, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde
Hon Helen Taiwo Adebakin. Coordinator OYSG WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE.