Women Situation Room Nigeria (WSRN) Anambra State Chapter has called on the media to reduce stereotype and enhance visibility for women In politics.
Speaking during the group’s advocacy visit to Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Center, NUJ Secretariat complex Awka, WSRN cordinator Miss Hope Nkiruka Okoye said the media which is often seen as the societal watchdog and the fourth estate of the realm play an important role in promoting gender equality, empowering women’s voices, and creating more inclusiveness.
In her words, “Women often face systemic barriers and obstacles that limit their political participation and subject them to various forms of violence and intimidation.
” These inequalities are perpetuated by patriarchal power Structures, cultural stereotypes, and traditional attitudes that prioritize male dominance and control over women’s lives and bodies.
“In many societies, women continue to face various forms of violence and discrimination before, during and post electoral processes, which severely restrict their ability to participate fully and effectively in political life.
” During electoral processes, women candidates, voters, and political activists are particularly vulnerable to various forms Of violence, including physical assault, sexual harassment, verbal abuse, and intimidation.
Miss Okoye calls for more news stories, opinion pieces, and interviews that feature women politicians, as well as the tone, framing, and accuracy of the coverage.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Anambra State Council, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD in his remark commended WSRN for championing the cause for the rights of women in the society.
Dr. Odogwu frowned at the attitude of some female politicians, CEO’s and stakeholders who shy away from speaking to the media, urging women to come out from their shell and speak out more.
The Anambra state NUJ Boss encouraged women to take up the challenge and be counted, calling on them to support each other.
A member of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) Anambra State chapter, Comrade Ebele Eze in her speech urged women in politics to be more accessible and media friendly.
Comred Eze while outlining some of the challenges confronting the participation of women in politics advised more female gender to be intreasted in politics by coming out and express themselves.
She advised that for women to shun some challenges facing them in politics, they should not attend uninvited political meetings and get prepared for eventualities when attending political meetings.
