A coalition of women’s rights and democracy groups has raised the alarm over the persistent exclusion of women from Nigeria’s political decision-making. They warn that the country’s democratic credibility is at stake as it approaches the 2027 general elections.
The groups, including the Human Equality Forum, The Electoral Hub, Women in Politics Forum, Safe Point Care Initiative, FIDA, African Gender Initiative, NAWOJ, and the Network of Women with Disabilities, held a press briefing today to demand urgent legislative action and greater political inclusion.
Speaking to newsmen, Ebere Ifendu, President of the Women in Politics Forum and Chairwoman of the Political Participation Technical Working Group, said the coalition’s main concern is the APC National Convention Committee list. It includes only three women out of 73 members, 4.1 percent far below the 30 percent global benchmark and Nigeria’s 35 percent national target.
“This is unacceptable,” she said. “Political parties cannot continue to exclude half of the population from leadership. Leadership must begin at home, and parties must follow their own constitutions.”
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Princess Hmman-Obels, Director of The Electoral Hub, highlighted the Special Seats Reserved for Women Bill, now before the National Assembly. She said the bill is a constitutionally backed solution to expand women’s representation without displacing incumbents. The coalition urged lawmakers to fast-track its passage before the 2027 elections.
Lois Auta, President of the Network of Women with Disabilities, and Barr. Chibuzo Nwosu criticized recent amendments to the Electoral Act, warning that any weakening of mandatory electronic transmission of results could compromise transparency, fuel disputes, and erode public confidence.
“A democracy that excludes women is not merely incomplete; it is unstable, unjust, and unsustainable,” Auta said. “Nigeria must choose inclusion, not convenience. Reform, not retreat.”
Women Urged to Speak Out
The coalition also called on women politicians across all parties to be vocal and active, stressing that their engagement is critical to protecting democratic space. “Nigerian women will no longer keep quiet. Any party that undermines their inclusion risks losing their support at the polls,” the statement said.
With the 2027 elections approaching, civil society groups insist that political parties, lawmakers, and the executive must move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate real commitment to gender equality and inclusive governance.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
