The Digest:
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has stated that a significant barrier for female politicians in Nigeria is the voting pattern of women themselves, who often favor male candidates. According to the Nigerian Tribune, Akpabio made these remarks during a meeting with a European Union delegation, highlighting the paradox of a large female voting population yielding minimal female representation in government.
Key Points:
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio identified a key challenge for female politicians.
- He stated that women often vote for male candidates at the polls.
- This occurs despite women comprising nearly half of the voting population.
- Currently, only 4 of 109 senators and 17 of 360 House members are women.
- Akpabio expressed concern over this persistently low representation.
- The National Assembly pledges to create an enabling environment for women.
- Proposed solutions include innovative measures and constitutional amendments.
Sources: Nigerian Tribune
