The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said only a review of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act can guarantee greater representation of women and other perceived marginalised groups in elective and other elective offices in the country.
The commission also dismissed publications about its recruitment of workers, urging Nigerians to disregard them.
The INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, stated this when he hosted the Women’s Collectives Forum during its advocacy visit on women participation in elective positions and party leadership.
The INEC chairman said affirmative action supported by clear legal provision, as was the case in many jurisdictions, would aid more women participation in elective offices.
He said: “This calls for the amendment of sections of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022.
“Accordingly, the ongoing review of the Constitution and the Electoral Act offers an opportunity to engage with our lawmakers for appropriate legislative action. Happily, the matter is back on the legislative agenda.
“At our retreat early this year with members of the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Electoral Matters, we supported the amendment that will ensure greater representation of women in elective positions.
“The commission believes that the most effective way of ensuring greater representation for women and other marginalised groups in the legislative assemblies is affirmative action supported by clear legal provision as was the case in many jurisdictions.
“We welcome your consistent advocacy for women’s participation and representation in political party leadership and elective representation in Nigeria. You should continue to count on the Commission’s support at all times.”
The INEC chairman restated the position of the commission at ensuring a level-playing field for all sections of the society.
