From mercy Peter
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has reiterated the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equality in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Yakubu also stressed the need for constitutional and electoral reforms to guarantee greater representation of women in elective offices and political party leadership.
Yakubu made the remarks on Wednesday during an advocacy visit by the Women’s Collective Forum, led by Ambassador Nkoyo Toyo, at the INEC headquarters in Abuja.
The visit coincided with the global commemoration of the United Nations International Day of Democracy, which this year focused on the theme: “Achieving Gender Equality: From Voice to Action.”
The INEC Chairman described the timing of the visit as “auspicious,” noting that democracy cannot thrive without the full and equal participation of all citizens, regardless of gender or disability.
“INEC is an equal opportunities organisation. We believe in inclusivity both in the workplace and in the discharge of our extensive responsibilities as an Election Management Body,” Yakubu said.
Highlighting strides made by the Commission, Yakubu revealed that women currently occupy leadership positions in 12 out of INEC’s 22 departments and directorates at the headquarters, accounting for 55% of directors. He also pointed out that several Administrative Secretaries across the states, who double as directors, are women.
On electoral inclusivity, the INEC boss disclosed that the Commission has a gender policy that is regularly updated and operates a dedicated Department of Gender and Inclusivity to promote greater access for marginalized groups in the electoral process.
He added that political parties are continually encouraged to open up more leadership positions to women and other underrepresented groups, with some progress already being recorded.
However, Yakubu maintained that sustainable progress in women’s representation requires more than advocacy.
He emphasized the need for affirmative action supported by clear legal provisions, similar to practices in other democracies.
“The most effective way of ensuring greater representation for women and other marginalized groups in legislative assemblies is affirmative action backed by constitutional and legal amendments.
The ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022 presents a fresh opportunity to engage lawmakers for the necessary reforms,” he stated.
The INEC Chairman recalled that at the Commission’s retreat with the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Electoral Matters earlier this year, INEC supported proposals for amendments that would guarantee increased women’s representation in elective offices.
Yakubu commended the Women’s Collective Forum for its persistent advocacy, assuring the group of the Commission’s unwavering support.
“We welcome your consistent advocacy for women’s participation and representation in political party leadership and elective representation in Nigeria. You should continue to count on the Commission’s support at all times,” he said.
The Women’s Collective Forum, led by Ambassador Toyo, is a coalition of female leaders and advocates championing inclusive democracy and gender parity in Nigeria’s governance structure.
