Groups seek end to intimidation of women in political processes, gender-based violence

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Samuel Luka, Bauchi

Women groups under Azurfa Women and Youth Development Initiative (AWOYDI) in Bauchi state have advised Nigerians against gender based violence and intimidation of women in political processes.

The Executive Director of LANGA Women Development Initiative (LWDI), Mrs Grace Maikudi made the call during a town Hall meeting on women participation and involvement in politics on Friday in Bauchi.

Mrs Maikudi who was the Guest Speaker averred that the low number of women in politics could negatively impact political institutions’ commitment to women’s issues and gender equality.

According to her, intimidation and violence against women in politics is a moral and ethical failure on the society.

Mrs Maikudi explained that alienating women from political processes undermines democratic processes at large and gender bias to all women folks.

“Violence against women in politics is a violation of human rights that aims to undermine governance”, Mrs Maikudi said.

She condemned the alleged intimidation on Hajiya Sadiya Farouq, Minister, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development (FMHADMSD) by some male politicians.

“The aim of some such male politicians is silencing women and robbing them of the mandate of supporting their candidates”, she said.

The Executive Director said problem of violence and harassment against female politicians has been increasingly recognized by actors at the state and national levels.

“Divulging threats received on social media, as well as incidents of vandalism and intimidation occurring at the Minister is not healthier, ” she lamented.

On her part, Mrs Mary Magaji , Assistant Director with National Orientation Agency (NOA) urged the women to pursue their political goals firmly and with decorum.

She said women have the right to participate actively in politics that would provide dividends of democracy to the society they live in.

Mrs Magaji explained that NOA has the mandate to educate the society on democratic process and politics.

Also speaking, Hajiya Maryam Bagel, the state Commissioner of Power , Science and Technology, encouraged women to participate in democratic process as well as politics.

“The threats against women participating in political processes, such as running for or holding office, supporting or voting for political candidates are more.

Hon Bagel said; “we are rising, but we are not there yet. So I encourage more and more young women to go for elective positions because we can”.