The political landscape in Nigeria is marked by gender disparities, with women often feeling sidelined in a male-dominated system. In the lead-up to the Nigerian elections, many young women like Teju, a 22-year-old waitress, express apathy towards voting. "My voting card has its benefits," she says, "I’ll use it as my ID card but I have no interest in voting. Politics is a man’s game in Nigeria, my vote doesn’t count.” This sentiment reflects a broader national issue where women's participation in politics is not only discouraged but often ignored.
As the elections approach, societal attitudes towards women's involvement in politics surface. Sangosanya Tolulope, a 33-year-old philanthropist from Lagos, notes, “There’s something at the back of people’s minds that says women shouldn’t get involved.” This highlights the significant barriers women face in seeking representation and the cultural perceptions that impede their participation. The upcoming elections are dominated by critical issues, including the Boko Haram insurgency and rampant corruption, yet they fail to resonate with the female voter base.
Nigeria, as Africa’s largest democracy, paradoxically only has 8% representation of women in its National Assembly. In contrast, countries like South Africa boast 42% female politicians, and Rwanda exceeds 50%. With military checkpoints being established and borders closed in anticipation of potential violence, the electoral environment is fraught with tension. In this challenging setting, one remarkable figure emerges: Remi Sonaiya, Nigeria’s first-ever female presidential candidate, who represents a beacon of hope for many.
Remi Sonaiya: A Trailblazer for Women in Politics
Remi Sonaiya, a 60-year-old retired French professor, is not just a candidate; she symbolizes a shift in the political narrative in Nigeria. Her candidacy comes at a time when many women feel disillusioned and disconnected from the political process. “Women cannot keep on being cheerleaders in this country,” she asserts passionately. This statement encapsulates her campaign’s ethos, aiming to inspire women to take an active role in shaping their governance.
Sonaiya's Kowa Party stands on an anti-establishment platform, advocating for the oppressed and marginalized. She believes that the current Nigerian government is not serving the welfare of its people, which is a critical message that resonates with many disenchanted citizens. Her presence in the election is a powerful reminder that women can and should have a voice in the political arena.
Despite the dire circumstances surrounding women's rights in Nigeria, Sonaiya's campaign seeks to empower young girls to pursue political engagement. She hopes that her candidacy will spark interest and involvement among women, encouraging them to realize that they have the power to effect change. “I hope that by my experience a lot of people would be inspired to get involved in politics,” she says, emphasizing the need for collective action.
The Impact of Boko Haram and Women's Rights
In northern Nigeria, female education remains a critical issue, compounded by the severe threat posed by Boko Haram. The abduction of 279 girls in Chibok by the militant group brought international attention to the plight of women and girls in the region. This event highlighted the urgent need for political awareness and activism among women. Hadiza Bala Usman, founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, underscores the lack of political consciousness among women, stating, “In Nigerian society, women and girls are not encouraged to have a political consciousness.”
Despite the Nigerian army's recent efforts to reclaim territories from Boko Haram, the fate of the kidnapped girls remains uncertain. Remi Sonaiya articulates the frustration felt by many, asking, “We’re all at a loss at how these girls cannot be found.” The ongoing neglect of such pressing issues during election campaigns raises concerns about the government's priorities and its commitment to safeguarding the rights of women and children.
Sonaiya's campaign is more than just a political endeavor; it is a call to action for all Nigerians to recognize their shared responsibility in addressing these critical issues. Her vision for a more inclusive political landscape inspires many to engage actively in the democratic process, ensuring that the voices of women are not only heard but valued.
Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility for Change
Remi Sonaiya represents a new era of political engagement for women in Nigeria. Her journey emphasizes the importance of women's participation in politics, not only for their empowerment but for the betterment of society as a whole. As the elections approach, it is crucial for women to understand that their votes matter and that their involvement can lead to meaningful change.
Those who choose to remain disengaged from the political process, as Sonaiya warns, risk prolonging the suffering of their communities. “The earlier we can recognize that all of us need to be in this together, the better for us,” she states. This sentiment serves as a rallying cry for women everywhere to embrace their power and to strive for a more equitable representation in governance.
