2027: Southern Kaduna Women Make Case For Female Aspirants

The Southern Kaduna Trailblazing Women Association (SOKATWA) has thrown its weight behind female aspirants seeking elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections, pledging support across political party lines in a bid to strengthen women’s participation in governance.

The association said the decision was driven by the continued marginalisation and underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

Speaking at the association’s quarterly strategic meeting in Kaduna, SOKATWA President, Belinda Istifanus, stressed the need for deliberate efforts to create political opportunities for competent women, noting that women have consistently demonstrated leadership capacity in peace-building, humanitarian service, conflict resolution, and community development.

She maintained that greater inclusion of women in governance would promote accountability, inclusiveness, stability, and sustainable development across communities.

“We strongly believe that women are not only builders of homes but also builders of societies and custodians of our collective future.

“Our inclusion in governance will undoubtedly bring compassion, accountability, inclusiveness, stability, and developmental progress to our communities,” she stated.

Mrs Istifanus called on political parties, traditional rulers, religious leaders, stakeholders, and democratic institutions to create enabling environments that would encourage female participation in politics.

She further urged political parties, especially in Southern Kaduna, to reserve and cede at least 30 percent of elective positions and party opportunities to women in line with affirmative action principles and global democratic best practices.

The SOKATWA president also assured female aspirants of the association’s unwavering support throughout the electoral process.

She also encouraged women across all local government areas to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing the PVC as a critical tool for driving positive change in society.

The association recognized several women who have indicated interest in contesting various elective positions ahead of the 2027 elections.

Among them are Munira Suleiman Tanimu, Mercy Aaron Kolo, Fauziyya Isa Hassan, Grace Ndi Bamaiyi, Patience Luka, Joyce Viyanto, Antoza II Ibrahim, Maryam Baba, Amanda Tanko Usman, Blessing David, Nita Byack George, Hawwa A. Gambo, and Tabitha Timothy.

The association called on political actors, civil society organisations, youths, women groups, and members of the public to support the emergence of a more inclusive and equitable political system.(NAN)