AFFIRMATIVE ACTION AND THE ROLE OF THE LEGISLATURE IN PROMOTING WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN ELECTION PROCESSES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Nigerian women constitute about half of the population of the country, but despite their population they are yet to achieve equality between men and women. Nigeria has been recording low participation of women in both elective and appointive positions. This is a growing concern to many Nigerians. The world of politics has for a long time been regarded as a place reserved for men. However, there is a growing agitation for doors to open for women in politics. Today, democracy is the order of the day as various countries are working towards women’s participation and representation in politics, even their inclusion in areas of decision making in governance. However, concerted efforts have been made by government and non -governmental organizations to increase the level of participation of women in politics in line with the declaration made at the fourth World Conference on women in Beijing, which advocated 30% affirmative action. This paper sought to appraise the request made by female activists for the amendment of affirmative action bill both in the constitution and the new amended Electoral Act, 2022. This paper further sought a critical review of the role of the legislature in promoting women participation in politics, monitoring women participation in politics in Nigeria vis-à-vis the affirmative declaration. The research methodology was doctrinal approach, using expository and analytical research design. The main sources of data collection were various legal literatures, both from the physical library and the e-library. It was recommended among others that Nigerian legislators should amend the Gender Affirmative Action Bills in the constitution and include the five gender bills in the new amended Electoral Act 2022. It was also recommend that the legislature should have sound principles by enacting laws to advance women’s political participation. Finally, this article was made to be significant to all stakeholders in human right and feminism.