Gombe CSOs Raise Concern Over Low Female Political Participation

As preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, civil society groups in Gombe State have called on political parties to take concrete steps toward improving women’s participation in governance through affirmative action and the creation of special seats.

In a joint statement, the Gombe Network of Civil Society Organizations (GONET) and the Gombe Women Agenda (GWA) urged party leaders to demonstrate commitment to inclusive politics by adopting policies that ensure women are better represented in leadership and elective positions.

The groups noted that although women make up a significant proportion of the population and contribute actively to community development, their presence in political leadership remains minimal due to systemic barriers, including cultural norms, financial constraints, and structural imbalances within party systems.

They stressed that affirmative action and special legislative seats for women should not be seen as privileges, but as necessary interventions aimed at correcting long-standing inequalities and promoting fairness in democratic participation.

According to the statement, inclusive governance cannot be achieved without the active involvement of women, warning that continued exclusion limits the quality of decision-making and development outcomes.

The organisations called on political parties to adopt measurable strategies, including allocating a defined percentage of leadership positions and candidacies to women, supporting the proposed Special Seats for Women Bill, and reserving party tickets across all levels for qualified female aspirants.

They also recommended reducing or waiving nomination fees for women to ease financial barriers, while advocating for safer and more supportive political environments that protect women from intimidation and violence.

The groups further emphasised the need for transparent and merit-based candidate selection processes that give women equal opportunities to compete.

Highlighting the broader benefits of women’s inclusion, the statement linked increased female representation to improved policymaking, stronger attention to social sectors such as education and healthcare, enhanced peacebuilding efforts, and greater public trust in democratic institutions.

GONET and GWA described the 2027 elections as a critical opportunity for political actors in Gombe State to move beyond promises and implement real reforms that reflect gender equity.

They reaffirmed their commitment to sustained advocacy and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that women are not only included in governance but are empowered to lead.

The statement was jointly signed by Ibrahim Yusuf on behalf of GONET and Dr. Leah Iliya Jalo for the Gombe Women Agenda.