9th NASS: Rights lawyer drums support for female speaker

As race for the speakership of the 9th House of Representatives intensifies, a pro-gender activist, Barr. Esther Uzoma, has made a case for a female speaker.

Uzoma at a press briefing, Friday in Abuja, said there was need for gender equity, competence and balance if Nigeria desired to be seen as a progressive democracy.

“After 20 years of democracy, it has become imperative that a female, a competent and experienced one at that, heads one of the major organs of government, in this instance the House of Reps.

“Nigeria is in dire need of gender equity if the country is to be seen as a progressive democracy. As things are, we have a competent, experienced and broad view lawmaker in the person of Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha that fits all the requirements for speakership,” she said.

The activist lawyer, who is also the founder and national coordinator of Proactive Gender Initiative (PGI), stressed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) was not in want of a qualified legislator from the South-east, therefore, should micro-zone the position to the zone.

“Nigeria is too lopsided in terms of distribution of political power. Given that the APC as a party has zoned the speakership of the House to the south, it should mirco-zone it to the south east for inclusion and parity,” Uzoma said.

According to her, “Onyejeocha is one of the few ranking lawmakers coming back for the fourth term.

“She has all the experience you need. She has held important committee positions and will be bringing a rich legislative pedigree to the position.”

Earlier in the week, Onyejeocha, declared her intention to run for the speakership, promising to improve lawmaking and to help advance the party’s developmental policies.

She represents Isiukwuato/ Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State.

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