Women and politics in a patriarchal Nigeria society: The role of culture and religion.

Abstract

Politics is seen to organize people and resources for the benefit of all and that is why the primary function of governance is the provision of welfare and security. This enclave called politics has been an exclusive reserve for men in most societies which are patriarchal. No doubt, culture and religion played a part in making politics exclusive to men. However, women in history have also reared their shiny heads to contribute their quota to the political development of society despite the unfavourable clime. This paper therefore examines the role culture and religion play in women's participation in politics. It analyses women in politics in the North and the South of Nigeria. The paper argues that culture and religion play a fundamental role in women's participation in politics resulting in low women's participation in a nation’s political life. However, the rate of women's participation in Southern Nigeria is higher than in the North due to the seemingly conservative nature of the North and early exposure to the South. Using the historical tool of primary and secondary sources which were subjected to authentication and analysis, the paper further identifies societal variables such as security, stereotyping, infidelity, and gender role amongst other factors that inhibit the participation of women in national or local politics. The paper concludes that these prejudices and cultural limitations could be mitigated with awareness and national orientation. This will enable Nigeria to achieve the United Nations' 35% affirmative action for women's participation in politics.