A coalition of concerned women in politics in Kwara State has called for increased inclusion and equal opportunities for women in the state’s political space, ahead of future electoral cycles.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the Chairperson, AbdulRasaq Barakat, a copy made available to DailyLinks, the group expressed concern over the low representation of women in both elective and appointive positions, despite their significant share of the population.
The women noted that the imbalance undermines fairness, equity, and the ideals of inclusive governance.
The group, however, commended the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for what it described as his administration’s deliberate efforts to promote women’s participation in governance through strategic appointments and supportive policies.
According to the statement, such initiatives have demonstrated that empowering women is achievable and beneficial to societal development.
Despite this progress, the group raised concerns over the delay in the passage of a proposed bill seeking to create special seats for women in legislative houses.
They described the bill as a critical intervention needed to address the long-standing underrepresentation of women in politics and called for renewed advocacy to ensure its passage.
The women also urged political parties to move beyond symbolic gestures and take concrete steps to support female aspirants.
These, they said, should include equitable access to party tickets, reduction of financial barriers tied to nomination processes, and the creation of enabling environments for women to contest and win elections.
They further encouraged women across the state to actively engage in politics as aspirants, supporters, and advocates, stressing the need for courage and determination in the push for inclusive governance.
The group also called on men, civil society organisations, and gender equality advocates to support women in politics, referencing the global HeForShe movement as a framework for collective action.
Addressing the electorate, the statement emphasized the importance of voting choices, urging citizens to support political parties and candidates that prioritize women’s inclusion.
It challenged voters to consider backing credible female candidates as a means of promoting gender balance in governance.
The group concluded by urging stakeholders to seize the opportunity presented by upcoming elections to reshape the political landscape and position Kwara State as a model of inclusivity, where women play key roles in decision-making.
