Our participation will stop men chairing women affairs committee — Borno APC aspirant

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A female aspirant contesting under the platform of the All Progressives Congress for the Borno State House of Assembly seat representing Magumeri Local Government Area, Yakaka Alkali, has called for more support for women’s participation in politics.

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She noted that such encouragement would prevent men from occupying the position of Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs in the state.

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Speaking exclusively with PUNCH in Maiduguri on Sunday, Alkali said her decision to participate in the election stemmed from the need to protect the interests of her constituents, ensure gender balance in the House, and amplify the needs of women and children.

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She said, “My aspiration is motivated by my passion, sincerity, and dedication to serving my people. I am confident that I will emerge victorious.”

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According to her, three contenders are heading into the APC primaries, including the current lawmaker representing the constituency.

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“There are three contenders for the position — the current member who is vying for re-election, another male aspirant, and myself. We are all going into the primaries,” she stated.

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“Let me tell you, the current Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs, is a man because of the absence of women. So, if women like myself are encouraged to participate, we will fill these gaps,” she stressed.

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Alkali further expressed satisfaction with the APC and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum’s commitment to women’s inclusion in politics and governance.

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“If you look at our state today, Governor Babagana Zulum is a strong advocate of women’s participation and understands the need for women’s inclusion. Therefore, I am confident that we will have his support. Additionally, the APC has provided us, so far, with the needed support.

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“The symbol of the APC is honesty. So far, we have gotten about 80 per cent support, and we will make it 100 per cent when we win. They reduced the amount for the nomination and expression of interest forms. The real amount is N5 million; however, it was reduced for us (women) and people with disabilities to N2.5 million,” she said.

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The 45-year-old politician also called for more enlightenment and education for women, saying they are key players in shaping governance and policies.

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“I believe we must encourage more women. Women are caregivers and their experiences are important in shaping policies on education, security, and development in the community.

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“Usually, women want to participate, but many are afraid of how to even start. They do not even know the steps. Hence, if they are motivated to participate, we will begin to see balance in our political atmosphere,” she said.

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