Abuja:Dr. Esther Okereke, the Presidential Candidate for the National Rescue Movement (NRM), has pointed out that only two women are among the 18 presidential candidates in Nigeria’s 2027 election, emphasizing the barriers women face in the political arena.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Okereke shared her insights during an interview, identifying financial constraints, cultural biases, and political intimidation as significant obstacles hindering women’s participation in politics. She noted that the high cost of elections, traditional beliefs limiting women’s roles, and fears of violence and intimidation discourage women from entering politics.
Okereke observed a shift in the political landscape with more men supporting women’s participation. She expressed hope for a peaceful election process, referencing a peace accord signed by all candidates to prevent intimidation against female contestants.
She disputed claims that women do not support female candidates, attributing such notions to tactics used by men to suppress women politically. Okereke stated that women are often pressured by male family members on how to vote, highlighting men’s control over the system.
With growing support, Okereke is optimistic about her impact in the upcoming elections and encouraged women to rise to the challenge, drawing inspiration from historical events like the Aba Women’s Riot of 1929. She criticized the 35% affirmative action benchmark for women, advocating for equal participation in governance to achieve balanced decision-making.
Okereke plans to prioritize the welfare of marginalized groups, including widows, orphans, youth, and people with disabilities, should she win the election. She emphasized her commitment to these groups, noting her ongoing grassroots efforts and the encouragement she has received to run for office.