Kemisola Oye
JOINING the global community to celebrate International Women’s Day, an advocacy group, CLEEN Foundation, has called for accelerated action on the “Reserved Seats Bill’ pending before the National Assembly.
Disclosing this was Mr Peter Maduoma, acting Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation. According to him, in honouring International Women’s Day (IWD), there is a need to renew commitment to accelerate action against all forms of gender-based exploitation.
He said it is not only a women’s issue but a societal imperative that affects all.
He said the year 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action for Equality,” calls for immediate and effective initiatives to address gender-based injustices, including sexual exploitation and discrimination.
The group said, “There is a legacy bill currently at the 10th Assembly. A bill on additional seats for women is about ensuring the structures of governance reflect the strength, leadership and contributions of Nigerian women.
“It is Bill HB1349, a Bill for an Act to alter the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide for seat reservation for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly; and for related matters.”
He further stated that from the 7th to the 9th Assemblies, the bill has suffered various levels of somersaults, this is even as he urged the 10th Assembly to muster strength and legislative might to advance this piece of legislation.
In coinciding with the IWD, he said the allegation of sexual exploitation involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked widespread discussions about the pervasive nature of gender-based violence.
He said that the 9th Assembly also threw out strategic bills on the eve of a similar celebration. “These allegations highlight the urgent need for systemic change and reinforce the importance of accountability, transparency and support for victims. It is crucial to approach such cases with sensitivity and seriousness, ensuring that justice is pursued through fair and thorough investigations.
“The case involving Senator Natasha Akpoti serves as a reminder of the broader battle against sexual exploitation. It calls on Senate leaders, Executive, Judiciary, traditional and religious leaders to reinforce their commitments to equality by fostering inclusive policies and practices. This includes implementing strict measures against perpetrators, providing resources and support for victims, and elevating women to leadership roles where they can contribute to transformative change.
“This situation represents an assault on justice, and it poses a risk of a similar miscarriage of justice for every Nigerian woman. We believe that it is unconstitutional to scapegoat women for speaking out against sexual harassment.
“No legal technicality should overshadow the seriousness of allegations of sexual harassment, which merit a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation. Education and awareness are also critical elements in this fight.
“By investing in a comprehensive education that challenges stereotypes and empowers women and girls, we pave the way for a future where exploitation is no longer tolerated. Moreover, men and boys must be engaged as allies in this cause, understanding their role in promoting equity and respect.”
The group, therefore, maintains that it is not only a women’s issue but a societal imperative that affects all. “We can create a world where equality is truly realised, ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for generations to come. Let us stand united in action, demonstrating that the time for change is now.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media