Gender Bias in the Nigerian Political System -By Asma’u Husna Muhammad

Gender bias is the unfair rights that exist between males and females which may lead to unequal treatment. It is an issue which is widely known in human history and culture. Women have fewer opportunities for economic and political participation. They have less access to basic and higher education. They are annihilated, objectified, not given consideration and attention. They are usually victims of patriarchal society, or successful survivors of discrimination imposed on them by others through patronage, culture and religion. In many instances, women participation in different leadership roles is either delayed or thwarted.

Women, are also those being discriminated in the educational aspect. Although the world is progressing in achieving parity for girls in education, girls in developing countries, example of Nigeria, still have a high percentage of out of school or drop outs than boys. Yet again, those from poor homes who cannot afford school fees make it a high priority for the male children to go to school rather than the girls. This leaves alot of girls out of school in Nigeria and the world in general.

Additionally, some of our beliefs, in culture and religion, especially in the north contribute so much to the trend. The people involved here believe that women are incapable of ruling or are not fit to be in politics. In the past, women did not have a say in anything at all. They are seen as someone’s property. That the men are superior to the women. The typical “house wife” we hear of today is because of patriarchal beliefs. A women are meant to cook, clean the house and give birth, and that the men are those that should be educated and to rule over people. In the past, women were not allowed to vote. They did not have the right to divorce, earn property or even have any authority over their children.

In Nigeria, there are a lot of women occupying political positions, like the minister of finance, minister of women affairs, e.t.c. But till date, no woman has ever occupied the presidential or governorship positions.

Our presidents and those ruling are all men. If a woman rules, at least there might be some  changes and we would see a different perspective in the piloting of our affairs. In places like Europe and the United States, there is less discrimination, but even there, no female has ever ruled them.  Countries like Germany, Taiwan and even India have been ruled by the females and the experiences were unique.

Thanks to  Women's right activists and activities today that spread awareness about the rights of women thereby narrowing the chances of discriminating against them.  Activities of creating awareness through massive enlightenment campaigns has played important role here. 

In conclusion, there should be gender parity for a successful and prosperous society. There should be equal rights for every person, irrespective of their gender, and thatPeople should be judged and engaged based on merit, character or behavior.