NGO Demands Statutory Seats for Women in Enugu Traditional Cabinets

Gideon Arinze, a representative for the Women Empowerment Education and Peace Building Initiative (WEPBI), has urged the Enugu State Government to amend traditional laws to require women's participation in royal cabinets and the Traditional Rulers Council. Oguadimma Joy, the Executive Director of WEPBI, made the request at a workshop aimed at developing policies for women's formal representation in traditional cabinets in Enugu State, supported by Global Affairs Canada.

Joy emphasized that despite their significant roles in communities, women have been largely absent from traditional councils. She stressed the need to shift from merely advocating for women's inclusion to formally incorporating them into governance systems. While no specific laws currently mandate women's presence in traditional councils, their involvement is crucial for community development, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, economic growth, and social welfare.

Samuel Asadu, the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, echoed Joy's sentiments. He highlighted that women's inclusion would enhance community participation and contribute to various aspects of governance. Asadu remains dedicated to increasing women's representation in traditional leadership and will continue working with traditional institutions to foster inclusive governance across the state.

Deputy Chief Whip of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Obiajulu Ugwu, added that policy changes should be complemented by laws that guarantee women's inclusion in traditional councils.