WIPF Condemns Violence Against Female Political Aspirants

The Abuja Women Political Forum (WIPF) issued a statement condemning the increasing violence and intimidation directed at female political aspirants in Nigeria, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. Eber Ifendu, the Executive Director of WIPF, noted that the attacks on women's political rights represent a deliberate assault on democracy and have led to a significant decline in the number of women emerging as candidates.

The forum cited various forms of violence, including physical assaults, harassment, and the misuse of candidacy mechanisms, which have created barriers for women. A shocking incident involved Senator Ireti Kingibe, who faced a physical assault within her party's secretariat.

WIPF reported that women's representation in politics is currently at a mere 4 percent, one of the lowest rates in Africa. They demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the violence and called for proactive measures to protect female aspirants and review unjust disqualifications.