During a multi-stakeholder democratic dialogue in Lagos State, Hon. Olufunke Rekyia Hassan, the convener of Safe Voices, Strong Democracy and founder of the Elpis Community Development Initiative, highlighted the numerous challenges that women face in political participation. These challenges reportedly include violence, financial exploitation, intimidation, online abuse, and a lack of representation in decision-making processes within political parties.
The dialogue, themed ‘Advancing Safe and Inclusive Electoral Participation for Women in Lagos State,’ was conducted in partnership with Global Affairs Canada and ActionAid Nigeria. Hassan indicated that the hurdles for women in politics extend beyond direct violence. They also encompass economic pressures, family responsibilities, and reputational harm, along with insufficient mechanisms for reporting incidents of abuse, which have been known to dissuade women from pursuing political careers.
Hassan claimed that her consultations with women candidates under the ‘Safe Voices, Strong Democracy’ initiative revealed serious but less visible repercussions of political violence, particularly regarding their overall well-being, economic stability, and personal safety. The initiative was designed to gather insights into the threats that hinder women’s political participation, which has led to the development of a policy brief. This brief includes recommendations for establishing clearer protective measures and accountability for security personnel who neglect complaints.
She advocated for tangible actions from institutions involved in the dialogue, emphasizing the need to translate women’s concerns into actionable steps. Additionally, Hassan announced the launch of the Safe Voices Women’s Political Network, described as a cross-party platform meant to facilitate ongoing connectivity and dialogue among women involved in politics. The network aims to serve as a foundational support system for women, starting in Lagos State with plans for future expansion.
While acknowledging that the network cannot substitute the role of public institutions, Hassan expressed that it would assist women in overcoming political challenges collectively rather than in isolation. She praised the courage of women candidates who shared their experiences, and hoped that their willingness to discuss the challenges they face would help foster a safer political landscape for future generations.
The proposed initiatives include a candidates protection and recovery fund, aimed at offering legal, medical, and financial support to women politicians facing threats or exploitation due to their political involvement. Hassan emphasized that this fund should not be utilized for direct campaign financing, noting the importance of independent financial oversight for female candidates.
Moreover, she suggested establishing independent complaint mechanisms to ensure protection against retaliation and timely responses to grievances. Hassan clarified that the recommendations served as safeguards for political parties rather than claims about existing legal provisions.
