GENDER INEQUALITY AND WOMEN’S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN NIGERIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE

Abstract

This study examined gender inequality and women’s political participation in Nigeria, with an emphasis on their implications for democratic governance. The study explored the extent to which socio-cultural, economic, religious, educational, and institutional barriers limit women’s involvement in political activities and decision-making processes in Nigeria. The research adopted a descriptive survey design and utilized both primary and secondary sources of data collection. Data were gathered through questionnaires, interviews, textbooks, journal articles, government publications, and online scholarly materials related to gender and politics in Nigeria. The findings revealed that women remain significantly underrepresented in political offices despite constitutional guarantees of equality and democratic participation. The study further established that patriarchal cultural practices, gender stereotypes, political violence, inadequate financial resources, and limited access to political opportunities continue to hinder women’s effective participation in governance and electoral processes. The findings also indicated that the low level of women’s political representation negatively affects inclusive governance, policy formulation, democratic accountability, and national development. The study concluded that gender inequality remains a major obstacle to democratic consolidation in Nigeria because sustainable democracy requires equal participation of both men and women in political leadership and governance. The study therefore recommended stronger enforcement of gender equality policies, increased political education for women, economic empowerment programs, implementation of affirmative action policies, and greater support from political parties, civil society organizations, and government institutions to enhance women’s political participation in Nigeria.