NDI bemoans absence of elected women in Kaduna

The National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the Gender Awareness Trust has bemoaned the total absence of women in elective positions in Kaduna State.

Kaduna currently has no woman in all the elective positions as all the seats in the house of assembly, House of representatives, senate as well as governor and deputy are held by men,

Speaking when they paid an advocacy visit to the Kaduna office of Media Trust Limited yesterday, the leader of the group Halima Abubakar expressed optimism that the 35% affirmative for women aimed at striking a balance in appointments between men and women will be achieved.

Abubakar, who is the Programme Manager, NDI said “In view of women representation in politics whish has dropped without robust action , we decided to embark on an advocacy visit to media houses with a view to reversing the trend and strengthen women participation in politics.

“It is very worrisome to note that in Kaduna state, no woman is holding a political position not even councillor, this does not augur well in any society because if women are not being represented politically, how then can we fight for what is rightfully ours.

“Accordingly, NDI is proposing a two-pronged approach that would equip women with the skills, strategy and support to native formal nomination procedures and to succeed in office; and increase opportunities for women to run by working with party leaders and other opinions makers to challenge negative stereotypes of women; and working with party leaders and activists including male change agents to change party processes that make it difficult for women to run for electoral positions.”

She called on women to strengthen their participation in politics with a view to bridging the massive gap between men and women in active politics.

The Bureau Chief, MTL, Kaduna, Andrew Agbese described the move as a welcome development and pledged the support and cooperation of the company towards promoting women activities.