Reps' Wives Team Up with PLAC to Push for Women's Special Seats Bill

Wives of members of the House of Representatives, under the House of Representatives Spouses Association (HORSA), are joining forces with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC). They want to boost efforts to get the Special Seats Bill passed. This bill is aimed at increasing the number of women in parliament.

Fatima Abbas Tajudeen, the Chairperson of HORSA and wife of the Speaker, made this announcement during a visit to PLAC in Abuja. She praised the organization for its role in promoting democracy, strengthening legislation, and encouraging civic engagement in Nigeria.

Tajudeen highlighted PLAC’s dedication to increasing women’s political participation. She believes the Special Seats Bill is a vital step toward a more inclusive democracy.

She stated that the bill is more than just a constitutional change. It is a strategic move to create better chances for women to take part in governance and national growth.

Tajudeen suggested that HORSA and PLAC should work together to organize a top-level workshop. This workshop would involve lawmakers, development partners, advocates, and other key players. The goal is to come up with practical plans to strengthen support for the bill.

Clement Nwankwo, the Executive Director of PLAC, confirmed the organization's commitment to supporting efforts that encourage women’s political participation. He said PLAC has spent over seven years studying successful ways women are represented in countries like South Africa, Senegal, and Kenya.

Nwankwo explained that the lessons learned from these countries helped shape the Special Seats Bill and other advocacy efforts aimed at improving women's representation in governance.

“While compromises may be needed during the legislative process, getting more women into elected positions is crucial for strengthening democracy and broadening representation,” he said.

He made it clear that the official name of the proposed legislation is the Special Seats for Women Bill. He noted that different names have come up as the bill has gone through discussions and reviews.

Nwankwo added that the main focus for everyone involved is to get the bill passed. After that, the final name and details will be included in the law.

Mrs Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, who leads the House Committee on Humanitarian Affairs, mentioned that misunderstandings about the bill are a major challenge to its acceptance.

Also, Mrs Kafilat Ogbara, the Chair of the House Committee on Women Affairs, encouraged lawmakers’ spouses to keep supporting the push for the bill.

Ogbara noted that the spouses are important stakeholders who have a lot of influence. She urged them to continue discussions with their partners about including women in governance.