Akpabio urges men to make way for women in politics for enhanced gender equality

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday said that men should consider stepping aside for women to engage in the political process.

He revealed this at an international conference on women in governance organised by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies.

“Despite my desire to see more women elected to the National Assembly as senators and representatives, I still feel that it is easier to get more women into appointive offices than into elective positions in our current political space.

“This is because the dynamics are different. This is why we must collectively push for a bargain with the male folk to sometimes step aside for women to engage in the political process,”he said.

The Senate President added that the number of women in the 10th Senate is not encouraging and must be deliberately improved.

He further added, “There is the need, also, to raise awareness and challenge gender stereotypes by conducting public awareness campaigns to promote the value of gender equality in governance.

“This is something this institute should do alongside fostering the development of supportive networks and alliances with women’s organisations, civil society groups and political activists to build solidarity and support for women in politics.”