Women Deserve Political Inclusion, Not Special Seats – Gov Diri

Senator Douye Diri, the governor of Bayelsa State, has argued against tokenistic agitation for special seats in the National Assembly and in favor of complete inclusion of women in politics.
This was said by Senator Diri on Tuesday at the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) women’s conference in Yenagoa, the state capital.

The governor of Bayelsa also called on women in the area to seek complete freedom to engage in politics since they shouldn’t be treated like second-class citizens.
“I was informed that the British High Commission is a major sponsor of this program,” he said. When the Deputy High Commissioner visited Bayelsa last week, I had the chance to meet with her and we talked about women’s involvement in politics.
She thinks it’s fantastic that women are fighting for special seats in the National Assembly. Although I partially agreed with her as a short-term fix, I generally disagree with the concept. My point is that I oppose treating women like second-class citizens.
Unlike in America, women in Britain do not hold specific seats in parliament. They totally engage in politics and are acknowledged by the system. There is no discussion of women’s disadvantages or reserved seats. In Nigeria, we can accomplish it.

“Our women are politically engaged and highly intelligent. They are also highly engaged in a variety of occupations. So why are we requesting that they be given extra consideration?
Women participate and go on to become presidents, governors, and members of parliament all around the world. Nigeria shouldn’t be an anomaly. We have the wrong structure. Nigeria has a structural shortcoming.

Even in the Niger Delta, there are women working as academics, physicians, engineers, and attorneys. I recently celebrated my 26-year-old daughter’s Ph.D. in law. Women should demand their independence, and I urge you to refuse to be treated like second-class citizens in our nation.

Governor Diri described initiatives to increase the representation of women in state politics.

“I have actively worked to increase the number of women in Bayelsa’s government, either in the House of Assembly or the state executive. I had anticipated having roughly five women in the parliament in 2023, but only two were elected.
I am glad that you are coming together since I am aware of the difficulties you are facing. Sometimes it’s even women against women. As governor of this state, I would constantly promote and support the women of the Niger Delta.
Previously, Rev. (Mrs.) Grace Ekong, the PANDEF National Women Leader, stated that for women to actively engage in politics, they need exposure, education, experience, and skills.

They had important roles to play in the advancement of society, thus she urged them not to remain passive.
“As women, you ought to contribute wherever you are. Engage and make thoughtful, helpful, and constructive contributions to the growth of this area. In order for your children to be assigned to political posts and participate in the events occurring in our country and our region, you should educate yourself and encourage them to do the same.

“Development and infrastructure are needed in our area. In order for the next generation to have a place to live and work, we must be connected and safeguard the environment.
“How many women from the Niger Delta region are involved in this country’s politics? This region provides the country’s wealth.”

Former Nigerian First Lady Dr. Patience Jonathan, Rivers State Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu, PANDEF National Chairman Dr. Boladei Igali, and a number of women’s organizations from throughout the Niger Delta attended the event.