By Abdul Kareem

Honorable Ali Kotoko, a member of the Borno State House of Assembly, representing Maiduguri Metropolitan Council has called for greater support for women participation in politics ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

Honorable Kotoko made this call while speaking as a special guest of honor at a civil society engagement aimed at amplifying women’s parparticipation in politics project organised by Stand To End Rape, a local NGO. 

The lawmaker highlighted the importance of amplifying women’s voices in politics, particularly in the context of advocating for the ‘Special Seat Bill.’ This legislation aims to improve women’s representation in elective offices, addressing the gender imbalance in political participation.

“A woman is an adult female human being, often viewed as a mother, wife, companion, or sister, and she is a reliable source of support,” Kotoko stated. “Women play a crucial role in the growth and development of society, comprising about 51% of the electorate during elections. Therefore, supporting their participation in politics is essential.”

Reflecting on the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kotoko noted that “The government has prioritized appointing women to key positions, aiming to inspire others and acknowledge the vital role women play in elections.” 

He added that similar commitment is also replicated in Borno State government under Governor Babagana Zulum  integrating women into  framework of governance. 

Kotoko stressed, “No political landscape can thrive without the active participation of women, who are integral to its success.” He recommended the pursuit of robust training and mentorship programs for women political candidates to further enhance their effectiveness and involvement in politics. 

The meeting highlighted the need to support the bill which is even in line with the 35% affirmative action policy designed to increase female representation in political roles. 

The lawmaker also advised participants, particularly young women, to cultivate a culture of building networks and committing to selfless community service early enough, even as he emphasized that “money alone cannot earn you political acceptance.”

The engagement was a day-two event as the Stand To End Rape seek public support for the Special Seat Bill advocacy. 

Susuti Saleh, the Project Manager at Stand To End Rape gave a background to the project which she said was funded by the government of Germany to push for the legislative support for the Special Seats Bill that was initiated during the Past legislative tenure. 

Susuti said for the past decade, STER has established itself as a pioneering youth-led organization dedicated to advancing gender equality and combating Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV) in Nigeria. With a firm commitment to fostering a society where everyone, especially women and girls, can engage freely in political, social, and economic spheres without fear of discrimination or violence, STER has been at the forefront of transformative change.

“We are holding this project In collaboration with German Embassy, to as the title stated “Amplifying Women’s Political Participation in Nigeria for the 2027 Elections.” 

“This project aims to secure the adoption of a legislative quota to ensure that women are adequately represented in the Nigerian National Assembly by 2027. This landmark effort is crucial for promoting balanced governance and amplifying women’s voices in shaping the nation’s future. The project also seeks to advocate for the passage of the Special Seats Bill, raise public awareness of the benefits of women’s representation, and push for gender-responsive political reforms that empower women in leadership roles.”