THE MARGINALIZATION OF WOMEN IN NIGERIAN POLITICS: THE CASE OF NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN AND THE STRUGGLE FOR INCLUSION
By Daniel Okonkwo
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has long struggled with gender parity in politics despite women constituting nearly half of its population. Women have the constitutional right to equality and non-discrimination, yet their political representation remains abysmally low. The continued marginalization of women in Nigerian politics starkly contrasts with international democratic standards, raising concerns about fairness, inclusion, and Nigeria’s global political standing.
Women’s rights are fundamental human rights, encompassing equal opportunities in education, employment, governance, and political participation. The Nigerian Constitution and various international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory guarantee women’s right to participate in politics. However, these rights are often obstructed by societal norms, patriarchal structures, and political resistance.
Women have the right to vote, run for office, and influence policy decisions. Yet, historical and systemic barriers have continued to sideline them in the political arena. Since Nigeria’s independence, no woman has held the office of President or Vice President, despite the significant contributions of women in governance, activism, and nation-building. The National Assembly has repeatedly rejected bills aimed at promoting gender inclusivity, including proposals for affirmative action and reserved seats for women.
The recent six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan highlights the institutional challenges women face in Nigerian politics. Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, a serious allegation that warranted an independent investigation. Instead of addressing her claims with due diligence, the Senate dismissed her petition on procedural grounds and recommended her suspension—an action widely criticized as an attempt to silence a female politician for speaking out.
Women’s rights activists, including Hadiza Ado, have condemned this decision as a "sad day for Nigerian women," reinforcing the perception that the political system is structured to suppress female voices. Akpoti-Uduaghan herself described her suspension as “an injustice that will not be sustained,” vowing to continue her fight for justice.
This episode exemplifies the systemic bias that discourages women from participating in Nigerian politics. It sends a dangerous message that women who challenge the status quo will face institutional retaliation, discouraging future female leaders from stepping forward.
While female politicians face severe scrutiny and marginalization, male politicians continue to operate under a different set of standards. A Nigerian senator previously came under fire for allegedly marrying a 13-year-old Egyptian girl, allegedly paying a dowry of $100,000. This case, which should have sparked national outrage and legal consequences, has not led to any disciplinary action by the Senate. The stark contrast in how issues affecting women are handled within the Nigerian legislature is a glaring indication of systemic gender bias.
Nigeria’s handling of women’s rights in politics has drawn criticism on the global stage. The country continues to rank low in gender equality indices. The African Union and the United Nations have consistently called for improved female representation in governance. Many nations have implemented affirmative action policies to bridge the gender gap, yet Nigeria lags in making meaningful reforms.
The exclusion of women from leadership positions weakens Nigeria’s democracy and governance. Policies that reflect the interests of women and children are often neglected, leading to gaps in education, healthcare, and social welfare. Women leaders have historically played critical roles in advancing policies that address maternal health, economic empowerment, and social justice. Their absence in key decision-making processes hampers national development.
On the international stage, Nigeria’s low female representation in politics affects its diplomatic standing. Gender inclusivity is a key benchmark in global democratic assessments. Nations with higher female representation in governance are often viewed as more progressive and committed to human rights. Nigeria’s failure to address gender imbalance raises concerns among its international allies and partners, potentially affecting foreign relations and development aid.
To address this disparity, Nigeria must take deliberate steps to ensure the inclusion of women in politics.
The National Assembly must revisit and pass gender-sensitive bills, including those advocating for reserved seats for women in government.
Parties should implement quotas to encourage female candidates and provide financial and structural support.
The society must be sensitized to the importance of female participation in governance.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should enforce policies that promote gender equity in elections.
The marginalization of women in Nigerian politics is an issue that demands urgent attention. The Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan case, the Senate’s rejection of gender bills, and the double standards applied to male and female politicians all illustrate a broader problem. If Nigeria is to strengthen its democracy, it must create an enabling environment for women to participate in governance without fear of discrimination or repression.
Encouraging and supporting women in politics is not just about fairness—it is about national progress. A more inclusive government will lead to better policies, stronger institutions, and a more respected international image. Women have the right to govern, to lead, and to shape the future of Nigeria. It is time for the nation to recognize and act on that reality.
Daniel Okonkwo
Profile International Human Rights Advocate
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