THE QUANDARY OF SEXISM: AN EXPOSITION OF FEMINIST JURISPRUDENCE IN THE NIGERIAN CONTEXT

Abstract

This article essentially focuses on a critical exposition of feminist jurisprudence in the Nigerian context. The article is aimed at appraising feminist theories such as liberal feminism, radical feminism, postmodern feminism, and African feminism. The article utilised the qualitative research methodology for information. The article espoused the view that African feminist ideology is most suitable and bespoke in Nigeria. The article found that although there are several feminist movements in the country clamouring for the emancipation of the women folk, their ideologies and modus operandi are antipathetic towards men and often based on western notions of feminism which are, in practical terms, at variance or incompatible with the norms, values, realities and peculiarities of Nigerian women. Conversely, African feminism gives feminists the latitude to involve their male counterparts in the quest for the realization of the rights of women. This stand point is premised on the reality that men dominate the socio-economic and political sectors of the Nigerian society. It is therefore contended that it is auspicious for women to collaborate with their male counterparts towards achieving the quintessential objective of equalization of opportunity and gender parity. The article concluded by recommending the adoption of African feminist jurisprudence and the exigency of implementing its ideological underpinnings and programmes so as to galvanise the realization of inclusiveness, equalization of opportunity and gender parity in the Nigerian context.