Denial of extra legislative seats for women by NASS unfortunate, but anticipated ― Okei-Odumakin

President, Women Arise (WA), Dr Joe Okei- Odumakin, on Monday described as unfortunate, but anticipated the rejection by the National Assembly to grant more representations to women in the ongoing Constitution Amendment exercise, declaring, however, that the battle has just begun as such denial “is neither resignation nor submission to it!”

Okei- Odumakin said this in a signed statement, titled: “The Hand That Rocks The Cradle will Still Rule The World – It’s a Question of Time,” copy of which was made available to newsmen in Lagos, pointing out that gender equality is plain and just, the fight for such may be complicated but cannot possibly be denied for much longer.

“It is no longer news that the Nigerian National Assembly has voted down two vital women-related Bills as the latest move towards Constitution-amendment appears to gain momentum.

“Although unfortunate, it is difficult for one who understands Nigeria, nay, the world, to express shock. For the denial was anticipated!

“Understanding it, however, is neither resignation nor submission to it! The fight for gender equality may be complicated but the strive for equity is plain and just. It cannot possibly be denied for much longer,” the rights activist said.

Okei- Odumakin said it was incumbent on women to simply realize that gender equality would not be given simply because it was asked for, adding that they must take the fight to the innards of political parties, to their homes, markets, and schools.

She charged them not to lose a bid for equity to men they gave birth to, nurtured, and natured, expressing the belief that the desired result would come with smart power, soft power, iron resolve, and steady will.

“The fight for gender equality may be complicated but the strive for equity is plain and just. It cannot possibly be denied for much longer.

“Women must simply realize that gender equality will not be given simply because it was asked for.

“We must take the fight to the innards of political parties, to our homes, to our markets, and to our schools.

“We cannot – and should not – lose a bid for equity to people we bore, nurtured, and natured!

“The desired result will come with smart power, soft power, iron resolve, and steady will,” Okei- Odumakin said.

WA president, while vowing to relaunch the battle with improved strategic ingredients and preparedness “and prosper in this bid,” noted that it was true the world favoured the male gender in a certain respect; but quickly charged women not to give in, cave in or quit until they had what was rightfully theirs.

“With improved strategic ingredients and preparedness, we shall relaunch and prosper in this bid.

“It is true the world favours the male gender in a certain respect; yet, women must not give in, cave in or quit until we have what is rightfully ours.

“Women around the world have way too much to offer this boiling globe – but the opportunity is scarce despite efforts by men and women of goodwill alike to break the glass ceiling.

“From continent to continent and country to country, the world is in dire need of nursing and healing hands.

“When we return the Nigerian woman to her pride of place, we would have started the regeneration process in earnest.

“Mercifully, there are millions of men waiting to give a hand to one mother, one daughter, one wife and one woman.

“The present setback to gender equity in Nigeria can be a blessing in disguise; it can be a tipping point that will galvanise thoughts and leaders with a compelling seat at the table.

“We must not be seen as rabble-rousers or be perceived as attention-seeking activists. We must not agonise with noise but organize with distinct voice working the fine details of the Bill with clarity of thought and purposeful action,” she said.

“Let’s win the heart and head of our elected officials, giving them the benefit of doubt that they require better framing and superior argument.

“Let’s work as partners in progress until 12-year-old Halima in Kano; 12-year-old Chike in Onitsha; and 12-year-old Anike in Ibadan attain their fullest potential despite gender differences.

“We will see that day in our nation where all girls and boys experience their fair share of opportunities. If it is to be, it is up to us!” she added.

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