Nigeria’s Inter-Party Advisory Council Supports Special Seats for Women in National and State Assemblies
In a significant move to promote inclusive democracy, Nigeria’s Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has announced its support for special seats for women in the National and State Assemblies. This backing was made public by IPAC’s National Chairman, Yusuf Mamman Dantelle, during the Council’s 2nd Policy Roundtable in Abuja last Friday.
The theme of the roundtable, “64 years of Independence, Inclusive Democracy and the Options of Special Seats for Women,” highlighted the need for women’s representation in politics. IPAC’s advocacy comes at a time when the National Assembly is reviewing the Constitution and the Electoral Act to ensure full citizens’ participation in politics and governance.
Yusuf Mamman Dantelle emphasized the importance of citizens’ participation in decision-making processes for a sustainable democracy. He questioned how far Nigeria has come in fostering inclusive democracy after 64 years of independence and 25 years of unbroken democracy.
IPAC has been a strong advocate for women’s participation in politics and governance, establishing a Directorate of Women Affairs and implementing other gender-friendly policies. Dantelle stressed that democracy requires active participation and representation of all citizens in democratic institutions and processes.
Currently, women make up 50% of Nigeria’s population, but they are underrepresented in policy discussions. This underrepresentation has led to feelings of marginalization among women. In the 7th, 8th, and 9th assemblies, women accounted for only a small percentage of the Senate and House of Representatives – 6.4%, 6.1%, and 2.7% in the Senate, and 6.4%, 3.05%, and 4.7% in the House of Representatives, respectively.
IPAC hopes that the roundtable’s discussions will lead to recommendations that will further enrich Nigeria’s democracy. By ensuring inclusive politics and governance, the Council aims to consolidate and deepen the nation’s democracy, leading to successful elections, political stability, and the well-being of Nigerians.
