Women Demand Special Seats Bill at National Assembly

Women gathered at the National Assembly to protest for the swift passage of a bill that would allow for special seats reserved exclusively for women in parliament. The demonstration featured various placards calling for increased female representation in the next assembly.

The protest was led by Obi, who emphasized the need for women to have a voice in governance. The bill, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and 12 other members, seeks to amend sections 48, 49, 71, and 117 of the 1999 Constitution.

It proposes the creation of special seats in the Senate and House of Representatives at both the state and federal levels, including the Federal Capital Territory. Additionally, the bill aims to alter section 91 of the Constitution to provide three special seats reserved exclusively for women in state houses of assembly.

The protesters urged the National Assembly members to pass the bill promptly, especially as the Independent National Electoral Commission prepares to release the election timetable.