Plateau: A group, Women for Women Community, Plateau Chapter, has called for greater inclusion, fairness and equal political participation for women ahead of the forthcoming elections. The call was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday and jointly signed by the group’s Convener, Mrs Rhoda Jahota; Coordinator, Mrs Felicia Bala; and Secretary, Mrs Kauna Samuel.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the group said women remained critical stakeholders in peace building, economic growth, community leadership, and family stability, stressing that their contributions should reflect in political leadership structures. ‘As vital stakeholders in peace, growth and development, women have continued to contribute immensely to nation-building, community leadership, economic advancement and family stability. It is only right that these contributions are meaningfully reflected in our political leadership and decision-making structures,’ the statement said.
The group appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, political actors, and other stakeholders in Plateau to support competent and visionary women seeking elective offices. It also urged political party leaders and chairmen to ensure a fair, transparent, and level playing field for female aspirants during party primaries and elections. ‘The inclusion of women on the ballot is not merely a political gesture,’ the group stated. ‘It is a necessary step toward strengthening democracy, promoting good governance and building a more inclusive society,’ it added.
The group further urged women, mothers, and youths to rise above political, ethnic, and religious differences in supporting credible female candidates. According to the statement, leadership should be driven by integrity, competence, compassion, and vision rather than gender, ethnicity, or political affiliation. ‘The future of Plateau State is brighter when women are empowered to lead alongside men,’ the group stated. ‘A society that gives women equal opportunity in governance is positioned for sustainable peace, justice, unity, and development,’ it added.
The group described the advocacy as a call for progress, inclusion, and transformational leadership, declaring that ‘it is Women O’Clock on the Plateau.’