A Niger Delta-based Civil Society Organisation, Centre for Environment Human Rights And Development (CEHRD), has decried the low participation of women in decisions making process in the country.
The Board Chairperson of the centre, Chief Constance Meju, who said this at the inauguration of Women in Governance Network organised by CEHRD with support from the Embassy of Netherlands in Nigeria, said available record has shown the continuous decline of women participation in governance in Nigeria.
She also criticised the Federal Government for not appointing enough women into the Federal Executive Council.
The activist also recalled the role played by women in the just-concluded 2019 elections.
“Unfortunately, the Federal Government has consistently paid deaf ears to these calls even though women play major roles as mobilisers, voters as well as candidates for elections. “The gallantry of Okrika women in safeguarding votes in the 2019 elections as well as the part played by Kano women in the same election have gone down in history as the few high points in the heavily flawed 2019 elections.
“You are all witnesses to the fact that for all the efforts of women in the elections, the Buhari government found only seven worthy of recognition in a 43- member Federal Executive Council and women all over the country continue to say that seven out of 43 is a slap on the intelligence, capability and contributions of women. It signifies a continued denial to women, of the right to participate and contribute appropriately, to nation-building.
“The Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development recognises its cry of marginalisation and the negative consequences, hence, some 10 months ago, it embarked on an enlightenment campaign in communities across the three senatorial zones in this state to bring bout change perspectives on women representation in governance from family to community, state level as the first step toward achieving inclusion. It has used consultations, town hall sensitisation and radio programmes to drive this process,”he said.
“She further called on women to link-up with other women networks on the mission for this needed success. I have no doubt that your records would mark you for choice in this noble task. Please note that the route will not be easy as you have chosen to try and bring about change.
So, be ready to make sacrifice and be committed. If you do, your successes will become the gain of all-a better society through an inclusive governance. That too is the mission of CEHRD, so demand that women be seen everywhere in government and in peace-building organs.”