Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has said that creating special or reserved seats for women in state assemblies and the National Assembly is not tokenism but a step toward inclusive governance that guarantees equitable participation.
Kalu, who sponsored the constitutional amendment bill seeking to increase women’s representation in Parliament, said the measure would help build a more just and balanced society.
Speaking at a special dialogue on the reserved seats bill hosted by Emerge Women Development Initiative under the theme “Deepening the Conversation, Accelerating Women’s Representation in Governance”, Kalu — represented by his Chief of Staff, Sam Hart — said the bill reflects a collective commitment to promoting women’s inclusion in governance.
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He stressed the need for honest conversations and stronger advocacy to dismantle systemic barriers limiting women’s political participation.
Kalu also commended women who have broken barriers and impacted society, reaffirming Parliament’s resolve to push for policies that see women not as tokens but as true partners in governance.
Kalu said, “I bring you warm compliments from the People’s House, the House of Representatives, and the Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution. This event is not just a moment in time, but a movement toward justice, equality, and empowerment.
“The theme compels us to reflect on the journey we have embarked upon, a journey marked by courage, resilience, and determination to ensure that women’s voices are not only heard but amplified in the halls of power.
“The Reserved Seats Bill, HB 1349, sponsored by me and cosponsored by some members of the House, is a legislative effort that seeks to carve out a dedicated space for women in our governance structures.
“As Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, I believe it is essential to examine the provisions of our Constitution and ensure that they promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. Hence, we have considered this bill that would create reserved seats for women in the National and State Houses of Assembly, promote inclusive Governance, enhance women’s political representation, and address gender disparities in our governance framework.
“This bill is not just a piece of legislation nor an act of tokenism; it is proof of our collective commitment to change the narrative and to disrupt the status quo that has long sidelined women from decision-making tables.
“We must examine the electoral laws, party politics, and societal norms that hinder women’s representation. We therefore must work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable political environment that encourages women to participate and thrive.
“As we deep dive into these discussions today, let us remember that the struggle for women’s representation is not merely a fight for gender balance but a pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable society. It is a call to harness the untapped potential of half of our population who have the insight, compassion, and perspective to lead with empathy and vision.
“Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and your unflinching belief in the power of women to transform our world. Together, let us continue to deepen the conversation, accelerate representation, and create a legacy of equality and empowerment for generations to come.”