By Peter Adelowo
The Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Kalu says the Bill for reservation of Seat for Women in Parliament and other strategic positions when passed will promote justice and national prosperity.
Speaking at a 3-Day workshop on public presentation of the national women leaders forum’s operational guidelines and the roles of political parties in the passage of seat reservation for women bills in Abuja, Mr. Kalu highlighted that 13 States in Nigeria do not have any female lawmakers
He lamented that at the national level, women make up only 3.6% of the Senate and 4.7% of the House of Representatives.
The Deputy Speaker pointed out that the under representation is not just a statistical anomaly, but also a barrier to national progress.
Mr. Kalu who is the sponsor of the proposed bill seeking to reserve seats for women in the National and State Assemblies, noted that the bill is aimed to dismantle systemic barriers and create a legislature that mirrors the diversity of the nation.
He urged various women’s groups to accelerate their advocacy efforts, mobilize support from political parties, and engage state assemblies, traditional leaders, and grassroots networks.
Mr. Kalu also encouraged Nigerians to make their input and support the passage of the bill stressing that this is not just about women but a national issue.
