Plateau Women Urged To Stop Frivolous Protests

A former executive director of CLEEN Foundation, Dr Gad Shamaki, has expressed disappointment over the protest by two All Progressives Congress (APC) women’s groups in support of and against the alleged defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to the ruling party.

Some APC women in Plateau State led by Elizabeth Yaksan staged a protest in Jos and criticised Mutfwang’s past remarks, describing the party as an “evil political party”.

She urged the party leaders to convey their position to President Bola Tinubu.

Gad, a prominent advocate of social change, human rights and good governance while speaking to LEADERSHIP in Jos, lamented that the protest by the groups came at a time the world is focusing on the challenges facing them, promoting safe spaces by encouraging everyone to unite to end violence against women and the girl-child.

“Sadly, many of the women who took part in these protests are usually not seen or heard when important party decisions are being made. Their opinions are rarely taken into account, as they are often sidelined by the men and party leadership.

He argued that instead of protesting in support or against what is totally out of their control, these women should focus their energy on demanding and promoting peace, development, and stability.

“They should have been engaged in pushing for greater participation of women in key decision-making roles and also concentrate on ensuring quality education for their children and grandchildren who are stuck at home due to insecurity.

“For those of us who understand society, history, politics and power dynamics, we can already predict the likely outcome of this unnecessary social media distraction.

“If the Presidency and the APC truly want Governor Caleb Mutfwang to join the party, and if the governor himself also genuinely wants to join, then no amount of protest for or against it will stop the decision,” he said.