As political activities gather momentum ahead of the forthcoming election in Anambra State, a prominent women’s advocacy group has called for a gender-inclusive and violence-free electoral process. The group emphasized that women, who make up a significant percentage of the state’s electorate, must be given equal opportunities to participate fully in politics, governance, and decision-making.
Speaking at a press briefing in Awka, the group’s leaders expressed concern over the marginalization of women in political structures and called on political parties to ensure fair representation in their candidate selections. They stressed that beyond mere rhetoric, political platforms must create enabling environments that encourage women to contest, campaign, and hold leadership positions without intimidation or discrimination.
The women further appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other stakeholders to prioritize peace and security before, during, and after the election. They warned that electoral violence not only undermines democracy but also disproportionately affects women and children, who often bear the brunt of post-election crises.
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, the group noted that women bring unique perspectives and solutions to governance and development challenges. According to them, any election that sidelines women in decision-making structures risks producing outcomes that do not adequately reflect the aspirations of the people.
They also urged civil society organizations, religious leaders, and traditional institutions to join in sensitization efforts aimed at discouraging hate speech, voter intimidation, and other divisive tactics that could trigger unrest during the polls. The group insisted that civic education and grassroots enlightenment were crucial in fostering a culture of peaceful participation among the electorate.
In addition, the women called on media organizations to give fair and balanced coverage to female candidates, pointing out that visibility in the media space can go a long way in boosting public confidence and support for women in politics. They argued that the fight for gender balance in leadership cannot be achieved if women’s voices continue to be overshadowed by systemic biases in political discourse.
The group concluded by reaffirming its commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and equality in Anambra State. They maintained that an inclusive and peaceful election would not only strengthen democratic institutions but also set a positive example for other states across Nigeria as the country continues to grapple with issues of gender imbalance and electoral violence.
