House Mulls Reserving Seats For Women In Parliament

The House of Representatives is considering a bill to reserve special seats for women in the parliament

The Deputy Speaker, Mr Benjamin Kalu stated this while speaking at the 2nd Women of Divine Destiny Initiative (WODDI) Inspiring Women Summit (WIWS 2024) in Owerri, Imo state with the theme: “Illuminating the power of an Inspired woman.”

WODDI is a non-profit organisation founded by Dr. Nkechi Rochas Okorocha, the wife of former Imo Governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha which aims at empowering women and helping them to achieve their dreams in life.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, the deputy speaker explains that himself and some of his colleagues sponsored the bill titled “Seat Reservation Bill”.

He notes that the bill is seeking an alteration to the 1999 Constitution to provide special seats for women in the legislature, adding that when passed into law, the bill will help the cause of women within the political space.

“We must acknowledge, however, that in a society striving for equitable development, addressing fundamental issues like gender equality and inclusiveness is imperative. In Nigeria, where women and girls constitute 49.32% of our population, the representation in institutions and governance needs urgent attention.

He says further that the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P), a social development initiative has also prioritized gender issues in its programmes and commends the WODDI founder for organizing the summit for the women, urging the participants to unleash their full potential accordingly having been rightly motivated.

“Here in Nigeria, we have actively pushed for more inclusive legislation that empowers women. Our social development project, PISE-P (Peace in South East Project), exemplifies this commitment. By also targeting young women as beneficiaries, PISE-P employs non-violent methods to foster peace and development across southeast Nigeria”.

“This combined approach, honoring the past while actively shaping the future for Nigerian women, is the key to achieving lasting progress.

“I am confident that the women gathered here today will leave WIWS 2024 inspired and equipped. Equipped with the knowledge, connections, and unwavering belief in yourselves, turn that inspiration into action”.

“Remember, the power you hold is immense. You are leaders, innovators, changemakers, and the architects of a brighter future”.

“Let the light you have ignited within yourselves continue to shine brightly.

Go forth and illuminate your communities, workplaces, and the world with your talent, passion, and uncowered spirit”, he adds.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji