By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi
Women groups in Bauchi State comprising of League of Women Voters in Nigeria (NILOWV) and the Nigeria Women Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) have carried out an advocacy visit to six out of the 12 members representing Bauchi State in the House of Representatives on Special Seats for Women Bill.
The six lawmakers visited include those representing Bauchi, Misau/Dambam, Toro, Jama’are/Itas-Gadau, and Ganjuwa /Darazo,Dass, Bogoro and Tafawa Balewa Federal Constituencies, while others were represented by their legislative aides.
During the visit, the Women groups submitted copies of petition to the respective lawmakers.
The petition entitled “Urgent Demand for the Passage of the Special for Women Bill To Enhance Inclusive Governance in Nigeria ” was signed by FIDA and women groups in Bauchi in Bauchi.
The petition seeks to ensure the swift passage of the Special Seats for Women Bill in the National and State Assemblies and address the persistent underrepresentation of women in governance.
Presenting the petition on behalf of the various groups, the state Chairperson of NILOWV, Hajiya Zainab Yawale, stated that despite the fact that women constituting nearly half of Nigeria’s population and contributing significantly to socio-economic development, their representation in elective positions remains below five per cent.
She said that the situation represents a major democratic gap that limits inclusiveness and balanced decision-making, urging the lawmakers to support the proposed legislation.
The petitioners maintained that under international agreements, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Maputo Protocol, hampered on women’s participation in governance.
The group called on the lawmakers to lead by example by mobilising support to secure the constitutionally required two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly.
“We call on our representatives to vote in favour of the bill and resist any attempt to delay or weaken its provisions,” the group said
They noted that increased female representation would improve outcomes in key sectors such as health, education, and community development, while strengthening democratic legitimacy.
According to the group, inclusive governance would also promote national unity by ensuring that diverse voices across ethnic and religious lines are adequately represented in decision-making processes.
The group expressed optimism that members of the National Assembly from Bauchi State would demonstrate commitment to equity, justice, and inclusive governance by supporting the bill.
Receiving the petition, Hon. Bappah Aliyu, member representing Misau/Dambam Federal Constituency, expressed support for the proposed bill and pledged to present the petition before the House of Representatives for consideration.
He commended the group for its advocacy efforts, noting that such engagements were critical in promoting inclusive governance and strengthening democratic participation.
