Gbaja: We fell short of our promise to ensure better representation of women in politics

Femi Gbajabiamila, speaker of the house of representatives, says the national assembly has “fallen short” in its commitment to ensuring adequate representation of women in politics.

Gbajabiamlia spoke on Tuesday at the lower legislative chamber while commending President Muhammadu Buhari for signing into law some constitutional amendment bills passed by the national assembly and approved by state parliaments.

TheCable reported how the national assembly rejected all gender bills during the consideration of the constitutional amendment bills in March 2022.

A bill seeking to create extra 111 seats for women, and legislation on 35 percent affirmative action were rejected by the national assembly.

Gbajabiamila said the lawmakers also fell short of their promise to “other marginalised groups” in the country.

“When we began the constitutional review process in the 9th house of representatives, I said this was an opportunity to achieve a constitution that resolves many issues that fracture our nation and hinder our progress,” he said.

“Last week, Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, signed into law constitutional amendments enacted by the national assembly and ratified by the state legislatures across the country.

“These constitutional amendments include consequential reforms to the design and operations of the Nigerian state, particularly with regards to the devolution of powers to the states and strengthing the judiciary and legislature at the subnational level. Taken together, they advance the cause of our federation, bringing us closer to achieving our highest national ambitions.

“Whilst these amendments represent a significant step forward for our country, the work is not yet done because nation-building is a continuum. Each new generation must build on the efforts of the past until, by our common endeavour achieve a just, peaceful, and prosperous society.

“We fell short this time in our commitment to ensuring political empowerment and representation for women and other marginalised groups in our country.”

“In the time we have left, we will work to understand why, as a first step towards ensuring the success of subsequent efforts.”

Gbajabiamila said lawmakers will use the remaining months before the end of the 9th assembly to ensure that the “institutions of government work towards the ends of development, national security and the welfare of the Nigerian people”.