Lilies among thorns: Structural patriarchy and the throes of women-politicians in Nigeria’s political space

Abstract

Despite breaking barriers and going against odds to secure elective positions in Nigeria’s male-dominated political landscape, female politicians have continued to be caught in the web of structural/institutionalised patriarchy. While much academic energy has been spent exploring the socio-cultural, political, economic and institutional barriers to women’s political participation in Nigeria, there is a need to examine the dilemma faced by those women who have emerged. Therefore, this study examines the throes of selected notable female politicians in Nigeria’s male-dominated political space. Data for this study were obtained from secondary sources through an exploratory research design with a qualitative approach. In particular, the study drew on newspaper articles, editorials, journals, and internet materials. Findings revealed that many female politicians have fallen victim to structural patriarchy and the shenanigans that characterise Nigeria’s political space. These women have either been harassed, abused, impeached or suspended under questionable and unjust circumstances, thereby raising the question of the conduciveness of Nigeria’s political space. The effect of such victimisation is the discouragement of other women from seeking elective positions, which would entrench Nigeria's existing imbalance in political representation. Thus, reforms and mechanisms should be implemented to adequately protect the minority, particularly females, in Nigeria’s political space. Cases of harassment and abuse should be investigated, while perpetrators should be punished irrespective of their positions. This would encourage more women politicians to seek elective office.