2023 Elections: NAWOJ tasks parties’ on female running mate for president, governors
Story from Sa’adatu MAINA, Damaturu
Following the conclusion of political parties’ presidential primary elections which has set the stage for electioneering ahead of the 2023 general elections, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has appealed to political parties to consider picking women as running mates for the office of president and governors.
Applauding the processes and the demonstration of the sense of responsibility displayed by the political parties in the conduct of their just-concluded primaries, NAWOJ in a statement noted, however, the need for “a gender-sensitive representation in the entire political equation and balancing”.
Buttressing their point, NAWOJ said: “It’s worrisome to note that rumours making the rounds are suggestive of male candidates being considered for the office of vice-president by political parties.
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“This posture will not only negate the contribution of women to nation-building but also endanger inclusive governance in Nigeria where all demography indicates the need for a sense of belonging and equal opportunity for females to serve even at the highest level.
“The time has come for the promotion of gender equality in political leadership in Nigeria to be accorded the centre stage, particularly as we head towards the 2023 general elections, to help reposition the country and situate it in its pride of place as the giant of Africa, not only in size but also in involvement in global discourse.”
NAWOJ equally called on journalists and media organisations in the country to rise to the occasion of setting the agenda for more inclusive governance in Nigeria.
