By Justina Auta
The 100 Women Lobby Group has called for more support for women vying for various political positions in the forthcoming general elections.
The National Coordinator of the group, Felicia Onibon, made the call at a news conference in Abuja on Thursday, emphasising the need for women’s participation in elections, electoral integrity, and accountability.
She encouraged citizens who have their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to endeavour to go out and vote on election day for women and persons who would support women in their politically held positions of leadership.
Onibon said there is a wide gender gap between men and women in political representation, economic management, education, and leadership, lamenting that women are disproportionately excluded from issues that affect them.
According to her, the forthcoming general election is an opportunity to elect leaders that will advance development, gender equality, and women empowerment.
She stressed the need for women to work together to empower themselves and expand opportunities in politics, businesses, and beyond.
The coordinator said “we must back up our results with resources because we know investment in gender equity yields returns across society.
“We must come out in our numbers and support women who are contesting elections, and in cases where there is no woman for a particular seat, please support the men that will have women’s interest and work toward fulfilling these interests.
“I want to encourage Nigerian women not to be dismayed by recent occurrences, instead, let these occurrences be a motivation to demand the changes we desire for Nigeria in the coming elections.
“Women`s voice and full participation are central to enhancing societal development. It is my firm conviction that women must be involved in decision-making at all levels and strategic directions toward a better world.”
The Assistant Director at the Women Development Department of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Victoria Lar urged women to endeavour to go cast their votes and vote for the right candidates that will bring the needed change. Similarly, Ms. Grace Jerry of Inclusive Friends, lamented what she described as the “excruciating effects of the CBN policy and fuel scarcity on women with disabilities.”
She, however, urged women not to be discouraged but to participate in the forthcoming election by voting for credible persons.
