By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly and Vice Chairman of the Forum of Deputy Speakers of Nigeria, Chief Lami Danladi Ogenyi has called for urgent action on the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, currently before the National Assembly.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, Agbaji Atsonwu in a statement Thursday in Makurdi said she made the appeal while speaking during a high-level meeting of Deputy Speakers and presentation of report of the joint committees on Constitution Review as well as the celebration of ECOWAS Parliament’s 25th anniversary in Abuja.

Chief Ogenyi who is also the representative of Ado State Constituency, described the bill as “a national imperative aimed at correcting long-standing gender imbalances and ensuring women actively participate in political life.

“The bill is not just legislation, it is a rallying point for inclusivity, democracy, and nation-building. Women with political ambitions should be given the opportunity to serve their country fully and equally,” she said.

The Benue lawmaker also praised the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for leading the initiative. “Deputy Speaker Kalu has single-handedly introduced this bill for special seats for women to enhance their participation in politics. This is truly commendable,” she added.

Chief Ogenyi emphasized the need for affirmative action in political representation. “We need more women in politics. That is why we are advocating and pushing for a 35% affirmative action for women. Passing this law would help many women who have the ambition to enter the political circle.”

She highlighted the barriers that had historically discouraged women from participating in politics. “Many women are hesitant to join the political arena, even when willing, because they fear oppression and lack of opportunities compared to men,” she explained.

According to Chief Ogenyi who is the North Central Coordinator of Tinubu Support Organisation (TSO) 2027, the bill would not only empower women but also encourage a more inclusive and representative democracy.

“If this law is passed and implemented, it would open the door for more women to participate in elections and decision-making processes,” she said.

The Deputy Speaker argued that passing the bill would bring Nigeria closer to international standards on gender inclusion. “It would reflect our democratic values and commitment to equality,” she stated.

In a call to action for lawmakers she said: “I appeal to members of the National Assembly to make history by giving this bill full support, ensuring its speedy passage into law, and helping women fulfill their potential in the political sphere.”