Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Mahmood Yakubu, has stated that affirmative action is the most effective way of ensuring greater representation for women and other marginalised groups in elective positions and legislative assemblies in Nigeria, which will be supported by clear legal provisions.
Yakubu also noted that this would require the amendment of sections of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022.
He stated this during an advocacy visit by the Women’s Collectively Forum on Women’s Participation and Representation in Elective Positions and Party Leadership in Abuja on Wednesday.
Yakubu noted that INEC is an equal opportunities organisation, adding that the INEC believes in inclusivity both in the workplace and in the discharge of its extensive responsibilities as an Election Management Body.
His words: “With regard to the electoral process, we have a gender policy which is periodically revised and updated. We have also established a Department of Gender and Inclusivity for the promotion of greater access for marginalised and under-represented groups in the electoral process,”.
According to Yakubu, INEC often encourages political parties to ensure greater representation for under-represented groups in party leadership.
“Many of them have responded positively, although much work needs to be done,” he added.
On gender balance in elective positions, Yakubu said: “This calls for the amendment of sections of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022.
“Accordingly, the ongoing review of the Constitution and the Electoral Act offers an opportunity to engage with our lawmakers for appropriate legislative action.
“Happily, the matter is back on the legislative agenda. At our retreat early this year with members of the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Electoral Matters, we supported the amendment that will ensure greater representation of women in elective positions.
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