Labour Party Women Leader defends female politicians, rejecting claims that they are prostitutes or loose, urging for respect and fairness in politics.
The National Women Leader of the Labour Party, Mrs. Dudu Manuga, has urged Nigerians to refrain from labeling female politicians as prostitutes or promiscuous individuals.
She highlighted the alarming rise in violence against women, including cyberstalking and intimidation, particularly in the political arena.
Speaking at the 2024 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls event in Abuja, Manuga encouraged women in politics to resist the emotional and psychological violence inflicted by their male counterparts, which aims to deter them from political participation.
She emphasized that the issue of violence extends beyond rape and sexual assault to include harassment and intimidation in various environments, including workplaces.
Furthermore, she noted that women often face discouragement when seeking political positions, which contributes to their ongoing anxiety.
Manuga condemned the prevalent narrative that demeans women in politics, asserting that such views are not only harmful but also reflect a broader societal issue.
Violence against women in politics manifests in various forms, impacting individuals like us at different levels.
The situation is so dire that when attempting to obtain candidacy forms in our constituencies, it is not uncommon to encounter discouraging remarks such as, “That position is meant for a man.”
Such statements inflict emotional and psychological harm, creating a persistent state of anxiety.
Additionally, many women endure cyberstalking and intimidation from individuals who ought to be more respectful in the digital realm.
Unfortunately, a prevailing narrative in this country continues to dehumanize women in politics, equating them to prostitutes.
Peoplesmind
