Threat of Legal Action: Edo State First Lady Addresses Gender Marginalization
Betsy Obaseki, the wife of the Edo State Governor, issues a stern warning against political leaders and government officials who marginalize women in appointments, particularly at the local government level.
Edo Women Summit: A Call for Equality
The threat comes during the Edo Women Summit, held at the Lawn Tennis Court of the Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where women from all 18 local government areas of the State gathered to mark the 2023 Alaghodaro Summit.
Acknowledging Progress: Fight for Gender Equality Continues
While recognizing the strides made in empowering women across various fields in the State, Betsy emphasizes that the battle for gender equality is far from over.
She stresses the importance of securing positions for women in the highest echelons of power.
Obstacles Faced: Resistance to Women’s Political Representation
Betsy Obaseki draws attention to the challenges faced by women in their pursuit of political representation. She highlights the resistance and hindrance posed by some men, noting the obstacles in women’s progress.
Unacceptable Exclusion: Advocacy for Local Government Female Vice-Chairpersons
The First Lady expresses concern over the treatment of female vice-chairpersons at local government councils, deeming their exclusion from important meetings and decision-making processes as unacceptable.
Legal Consequences: Vowing to Challenge Gender-Based Discrimination
In her address, Obaseki’s wife vows to use the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law to challenge gender-based discrimination in politics. She emphasizes that female officeholders deserve respect, equal opportunities, and fair compensation.
Commendations and Support: State Officials Speak Out
The State Commissioner for Education, Dr Joan Ovia, commends the Governor’s initiatives, highlighting improvements in the conditions for primary school teachers.
The Special Adviser on Strategy, Sara Esangbedo-Ajose, celebrates increased representation of women in the State cabinet and praises Governor Obaseki’s governance.