By Akintunde Jacobs, Akure
An advocacy group, ‘Stop Violence Against Women In Politics’ (Stop VAWIP) of the Justice Development and Peace Centre (JDPC), Catholic Diocese of Akure, has called for legal funds to assist women politicians to challenge electoral malpractices of any form at all levels of political processes.
While describing as undemocratic, the underrepresentation of women in politics, especially in elective positions in spite of their population in the country, JDPC, however, said women should be encouraged and supported regardless of party affiliations in order to seek political office.
According to Austin Ogunleye, the Programme Officer, JDPC and Bola Inyang, the Chief Executive Officer, ‘The Speaking Voice,’ while speaking with journalists in Akure on Tuesday, the hope and momentum for advancing women’s full and equal political participation have not been stronger in Nigeria.
The group however, recommended that “Political parties should create a support network for prospective aspirants by pairing them with established women politicians who will be playing a key role as mentors and provide capacity building for young or aspiring female politicians to enhance and develop them ahead of subsequent elections.
“Building mass Coalition of women support and advocacy groups using NGOs and Grassroots women associations to coordinate support and advocacy for fellow women aspirants.
“To create enabling environment that allows women to engage meaningfully in the decision-making process sustainably and effectively that is free from violence and harassments of any kind.
“Establishment of legal funds to assist women politicians to challenge electoral malpractices of any form at all levels of political processes.
“Introducing quota system at all levels of government and identifying and engaging relevant stakeholders such as Independent National Electoral Commission and political parties to ensure strict adherence to it.”