Nigeria’s former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, and Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, shared differing perspectives on the push for enhanced representation of women in the state and national politics.
At the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) Women Conference 2026, Mrs. Jonathan emphasised the need for Nigeria and Africa to emulate developed countries by creating a conducive system that supports women’s involvement in governance.
She referenced other African countries where affirmative action policies had been implemented to ensure a certain percentage of women’s representation in politics.
Mrs. Jonathan called for unity among women in the Niger Delta and Nigeria, emphasising the importance of setting aside political differences to collectively advocate women’s rights and empowerment
Diri, on the other hand, stressed the importance of full inclusion of women in politics, rather than advocating special seats in the National Assembly.
He encouraged women to demand equal opportunities in politics, highlighting that they should not be treated as second-class citizens.
The governor expressed belief that women were capable of actively participating in politics without the need for special considerations.
He also mentioned his efforts to increase women’s participation in the state’s governance, acknowledging the challenges faced in achieving gender parity in political representation.
The governor stated, “I was told that the British High Commission is a major sponsor of this programme. I had the opportunity of meeting with the Deputy High Commissioner when she visited Bayelsa last week, and we discussed women participation in politics.
”She believes that the agitation for special seats for women in the National Assembly is good. While I agreed with her, in part, as a temporary solution, I however largely disagree with the idea. My point is, I do not want our women to be treated as second-class citizens.
”The women in Britain do not have special seats in parliament just as in America. The system flows and recognises them, and they participate fully in politics. Nobody talks about special seats or women being under-privileged there. We can do it in Nigeria.”
Diri added, “Our women are very intelligent and are active in politics. They are also very active in various professions. So, why are we asking for special considerations for them?
“Women across the world participate and become members of parliament, governors and presidents. Nigeria should not be an exception. Our structure is wrong. There is a structural deficiency in Nigeria.
”Here we have women that are professors, doctors, engineers, and lawyers even in the Niger Delta. I just celebrated my daughter of 26 years with a Ph.Din law. Women should ask for their freedom and I encourage you not to accept the second-class citizens’ treatment in this country. “
Earlier, PANDEF National Women Leader, Rev. (Mrs.) Grace Ekong, said women required education, skills, experience, and exposure to actively participate in politics.
Ekong charged women not to be passive, as they had a significant role to play in societal development.
She stated, “As women, wherever you are, you should contribute. Participate and contribute intelligently, constructively and positively for the development of this region.
“Be educated and encourage your children to be educated so that they can be appointed into political positions and be part of what is going on in this country and our region.
“Our region needs infrastructure and development. We need that connectivity and protection of our environment so future generation will have where to live and work.
”This region provides the wealth of this country and how many women from the Niger Delta region are part of the politics of this country?”
The PANDEF leadership reiterated the significance of education, skills, experience, and exposure for women to effectively engage in politics and contribute to societal development.
They urged women to be proactive and united in their efforts to promote women’s inclusion in governance.
Olusegun Samuel
