Akpabio and Kalu Champion Democracy and Women’s Participation

Calls for Stronger Democracy and Women’s Inclusion in Nigerian Politics

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, have emphasized the need for a stronger democracy and greater inclusion of women in Nigeria’s political structure. Their remarks were made during a consultative session held in Abuja on Monday, where they engaged with national chairmen, secretaries, and women leaders of registered political parties in the country.

Kalu, who also serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, highlighted that despite 26 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria, the full potential of the governance system has yet to be realized. He urged political leaders to collaborate with the parliament to ensure better representation and rights for women in the new constitution.

He pointed out that while Nigeria has made significant progress in its democratic journey since 1999, there is still much to be done to make democracy function effectively, not just on paper but in practice. The 10th House, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, is working alongside the Senate to review key clauses of the 1999 Constitution. This initiative aims to enhance governance and ensure that democracy truly benefits the people.

Key Areas for Constitutional Reform

The committee, led by Kalu, has identified several areas for reform, including power devolution, independent candidacy, local government autonomy, state police, and special seats for women. To gather input from stakeholders, the committee has embarked on a nationwide tour across the six geopolitical zones, engaging with various groups.

The committee has pledged to present the final draft of the revised constitution to the parliament for consideration and adoption by December. In his welcome address, Kalu encouraged political party leaders to study the proposed bills and provide their input for possible adoption.

He reflected on the initial expectations when Nigeria returned to democratic governance under the 1999 Constitution. “After decades of military rule, we dared to believe that a new era of freedom, justice, and prosperity was finally within reach,” he said. While acknowledging the progress made, he questioned whether the promise of the constitution had been fully fulfilled.

Kalu stressed the importance of reforms that actively enable democracy rather than merely permitting it. He mentioned that the proposed bills aim to streamline the electoral process, reduce litigation, and ensure that the will of the people is respected.

Addressing Gaps in the Constitution

Kalu noted that the 1999 Constitution has several gaps that need addressing, particularly regarding the underrepresentation of women in political structures. “Too many Nigerians feel left behind,” he said. “Women remain severely underrepresented in our political structures, despite constituting half our population.”

He also highlighted the challenges faced by local governments, which are often financially dependent and lack autonomy. Electoral disputes that drag on for years undermine public confidence in the system.

Kalu called on political leaders to reflect on whether the current constitution is still fit for purpose. “Is it anchored on the Nigeria of a bygone era?” he asked. He emphasized that the proposed amendments aim to build an inclusive political culture that guarantees the rights of both men and women.

A Vision for Inclusive Democracy

Akpabio, represented by the Senate’s Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno, echoed similar sentiments, calling for a review of relevant constitutional sections to promote inclusive women’s political participation. He stated that the meeting with political stakeholders was aimed at birthing democratic reforms across multiple layers.

“We are gathered to examine the heartbeats of our republic on issues of justice, security, inclusion, and accountability,” Akpabio said. He listed judicial and electoral reforms, local government autonomy, special seats for women, state policing, and human rights as critical areas for attention.

He emphasized that these issues are not just checklist items but pillars of a nation still under construction. “Each one of them speaks to a larger question: how do we make democracy not only endure but deliver?” he asked.

Akpabio also highlighted the importance of strengthening institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission and shielding courts from corruption. He drew inspiration from countries like India and South Africa, where reforms have enhanced accessibility and judicial independence.

Role of Women in Politics

Speaking on the role of women in politics, Akpabio stressed that Nigerian women, who are described as the pillars of every family and the architects of every community, must not be sidelined. “A democracy that sidelines its women weakens itself,” he said. He cited examples from Rwanda and Finland, where women play significant roles in governance and policy-making.

He called for a shift from sympathy to policy inclusion, urging Nigeria to move toward a more equitable political system.

Security and Electoral Reforms

On security, Akpabio argued that a nation as vast as Nigeria cannot be protected from a single command post. He supported the call for state policing, emphasizing that it is a realistic approach rather than rebellion. He noted that in countries like the United States, India, and Brazil, local and national forces work together.

However, he warned against sacrificing freedom in the name of safety. “The hand that guards must not gag. The shield of the state must never become a sword against its citizens,” he said.

Inter-Party Advisory Council’s Commitment

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), represented by its Deputy National Chairman, Dipo Olayoku, pledged its commitment to a fair and transparent electoral process. It called for a review of the Electoral Act, 2022, to consolidate and strengthen democracy.

Olayoku highlighted the need for a revised Electoral Act and constitution amendments before the 2027 general election. He emphasized that these reforms would address concerns, enhance credibility, and promote political stability.

IPAC also called for the scrapping of State Independent Electoral Commissions and the vesting of responsibility for conducting all 774 local government area elections on INEC. It further advocated for the removal of the executive’s power to appoint key INEC officials to promote the commission’s independence.

Additionally, IPAC called for the restoration of funding for political parties to ensure a level playing field for all.

Filling Vacant Seats

Olayoku also addressed the issue of filling vacant seats arising from defection or death. He argued that any seat vacated should be filled by the winning political party through a replacement process, rather than an expensive and torturous election.