ABUJA — Some women groups in the country are planning to hold a protest at the national assembly over the rejection of the gender bills.
These groups intend to agitate for a reconsideration of the bills rejected by the lawmakers.
A Nigerian lawyer and civil rights activist, Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi made the announcement at a virtual media briefing attended by civil society organizations (CSOs) on Tuesday.
“The proposed gender bills in the constitution alteration bills that were all rejected are bills targeted at addressing the current gender imbalance across the legislative arm of governments across the country, whilst reducing the under-representation of women in political office,” she said.
“The men of the ninth national assembly, by their actions, have taken us backwards. Their actions undermine the importance and relevance of women’s contribution to the governance of Nigeria, including the key role women play to bring victory to political parties in elections at all levels across the country.
“Nigerian women, therefore, demand that all gender bills be reconsidered.
“We call on the national assembly to re-present these bills as a matter of urgency and ensure that they are passed.”
On Tuesday, lawmakers had voted against a bill seeking to provide special seats for women in the national and state houses of assembly.
The national assembly also rejected a bill seeking to provide reserve quota for women on appointments.
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