A multidimensional analysis of gender, power, and governance in Nigeria (2)

The Way Forward: A Comprehensive Roadmap

This debacle is a stark reminder of the systemic barriers that women face in Nigerian politics. Therefore, addressing the issues requires a comprehensive, multifaceted approach that tackles the root causes of gender inequality and promotes inclusivity at all levels of society.

Below, I outline a comprehensive roadmap for addressing not just the current crisis, but for promoting gender equality in Nigerian politics. I will explore intersectionality, generational divides, media narratives, regional disparities, the role of men as allies, the psychological impact of marginalisation, and the potential for grassroots movements. These layers will provide a more holistic understanding and offer additional pathways for addressing the issues.

1. Intersectionality: Beyond Gender Alone

The marginalisation of women in Nigerian politics cannot be fully understood without considering intersectionality—the overlapping layers of discrimination that women face based on factors such as ethnicity, religion, class, and age. For instance:

● Ethnic and Regional Bias: Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, being from Kogi State, may face additional challenges due to Nigeria’s deeply entrenched ethnic and regional politics. Women from minority ethnic groups often struggle to gain acceptance in a political system dominated by majority groups.

● Class and Access: Women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face even greater barriers to political participation due to limited access to education, financial resources, and political networks.

● Age and Experience: Younger women in politics often face ageism, with their competence and leadership abilities questioned simply because of their age. This is compounded by the patriarchal notion that older men are more “naturally” suited to leadership.

Implications: Addressing gender inequality in Nigerian politics must also tackle these intersecting forms of discrimination. Policies and reforms should be designed to uplift women from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that no one is left behind.

2. Generational Divides: The Role of Youth in Shaping the Future

Nigeria’s youth population, which constitutes over 60% of the country, is increasingly vocal about issues of governance and equality. However, there is a generational divide in how gender inequality is perceived:

● Older Generations: Many older Nigerians, particularly in rural areas, hold traditional views on gender roles and are resistant to change. This resistance is often rooted in cultural and religious beliefs.

● Younger Generations: Nigerian youth, particularly those in urban areas, are more progressive and are using social media and grassroots activism to demand gender equality. Movements like #BringBackOurGirls and #EndSARS have shown the power of youth-led advocacy.

Implications: Engaging young people in the fight for gender equality is crucial. Their energy, creativity, and use of technology can drive meaningful change. However, efforts must also be made to bridge the generational divide by educating older Nigerians on the importance of gender equality.

3. Media Narratives: Shaping Public Perception

The media plays a critical role in shaping public perception of gender issues in Nigeria. Unfortunately, the media often perpetuates harmful stereotypes:

● Sensationalism: The media tends to focus on sensational aspects of gender-related stories, such as scandals or conflicts, rather than the systemic issues at play.

● Underrepresentation: Women are underrepresented in media leadership roles, which influences the types of stories that are told and how they are framed.

● Positive Narratives: There is a lack of positive stories about women in leadership, which reinforces the notion that women are not fit for political office.

Implications: Media reform is needed to ensure balanced and fair coverage of gender issues. This includes increasing the representation of women in media leadership and promoting stories that highlight the achievements of women in politics.

4. Regional Disparities: The North-South Divide

Nigeria’s North-South divide also plays a role in gender inequality in politics:

● Northern Nigeria: The North, which is predominantly Muslim, has historically had lower levels of women’s political participation due to cultural and religious norms. For example, the adoption of Sharia law in some Northern states has further restricted women’s rights.

● Southern Nigeria: The South, particularly the Southwest, has seen relatively higher levels of women’s participation in politics. However, even here, women face significant barriers.

Implications: Addressing gender inequality in Nigerian politics requires region-specific strategies that take into account the unique cultural and religious contexts of different parts of the country.

Read also: A multidimensional analysis of gender, power, and governance in Nigeria (1)

5. The Role of Men as Allies

Men have a critical role to play in advancing gender equality in Nigeria:

● Challenging Patriarchy: Men in positions of power, such as Senate President Godswill Akpabio, must actively challenge patriarchal norms and practices. This includes advocating for policies that promote gender equality and calling out discriminatory behaviour.

● Mentorship: Men can serve as mentors and allies to women in politics, helping them navigate the challenges of political life.

● Accountability: Men must hold each other accountable for discriminatory actions and behaviors.

Implications: Gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue that requires the active involvement of men. Efforts to promote gender equality must include initiatives that engage men as allies.

6. Psychological Impact of marginalisation

The marginalisation of women in politics has a profound psychological impact:

● Imposter Syndrome: Women in politics often struggle with imposter syndrome, feeling that they do not belong or are not qualified for their roles.

● Mental Health: The constant scrutiny, discrimination, and harassment faced by women in politics can take a toll on their mental health.

● Role Models: The lack of visible female role models in politics can discourage young women from pursuing political careers.

Implications: Addressing the psychological impact of marginalisation requires providing support systems for women in politics, including mentorship programmes, mental health resources, and platforms for sharing experiences.

7. Grassroots Movements: The Power of Collective Action

Grassroots movements have the potential to drive significant change in Nigeria:

● Women’s Groups: organisations like the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF) and Women in Politics Forum (WIPF) are already working to increase women’s political participation.

● Community Mobilisation: Grassroots movements can mobilise communities to demand gender equality and hold leaders accountable.

● Advocacy and Awareness: Grassroots organisations can raise awareness about the importance of gender equality and advocate for policy changes.

Implications: Supporting grassroots movements is essential for creating a bottom-up approach to gender equality. This includes providing funding, resources, and platforms for these organisations to amplify their voices.

8. The Role of International organisations

International organisations can play a key role in supporting Nigeria’s efforts to promote gender equality:

● Funding and Resources: organisations like UN Women and the African Union can provide funding and resources for initiatives aimed at increasing women’s political participation.

● Advocacy and Pressure: International organisations can advocate for gender equality in Nigeria and put pressure on the government to implement reforms.

● Best Practices: Nigeria can learn from the experiences of other countries that have successfully increased women’s representation in politics.

Implications: Leveraging the support of international organisations can strengthen Nigeria’s efforts to promote gender equality and ensure that these efforts are sustainable.

9. The Economic Case for Gender Equality

Promoting gender equality in politics is not just a moral imperative; it is also an economic one:

● Diverse Perspectives: Women bring diverse perspectives to policymaking, which can lead to more inclusive and effective policies.

● Economic Growth: Studies have shown that increasing women’s participation in politics and the workforce can boost economic growth.

● Poverty Reduction: Women in politics are more likely to advocate for policies that address poverty and inequality, benefiting society as a whole.

Implications: Making the economic case for gender equality can help garner support from a broader range of stakeholders, including those who may not be motivated by moral or ethical considerations.

10. The Role of Education

Education is a powerful tool for promoting gender equality:

● Awareness and Empowerment: Education can empower women with the knowledge and skills they need to participate in politics.

● Changing Mindsets: Education can challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes, fostering a culture of equality.

● Leadership Training: Specialised training programmes can prepare women for leadership roles in politics.

Implications: Investing in education is essential for creating a pipeline of future female leaders and ensuring that gender equality becomes a societal norm.