By Vicky Effiong
The Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA) is intensifying its call for inclusive governance in Cross River State, championing gender equity and the political participation of marginalized groups in Nigeria’s democratic processes.
At a recent Town Hall Meeting in Ikot Effanga Mkpa, WRAPA underscored the critical importance of including women, youths, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in budgeting, policymaking, and electoral frameworks.
Ms. Uduak Ekong, representing State Coordinator Mrs. Ekanem Bassey, described the event as a strategic effort to deepen citizen engagement and governmental accountability. “Our presence here is to ensure that the voices of women, youths, PWDs, and other marginalized groups are not only heard but valued,”
Ekong stated.
Lawrence Peter, a legal expert, highlighted Nigeria’s existing commitments, such as the 35% Affirmative Action and the National Gender Policy, which mandate increased female representation in leadership.
He advocated for crucial structural changes, including providing disability-friendly voting environments and improving voter security. Joy Adebayo, a co-facilitator, urged unity among women and encouraged proactive political participation.
“Elections start at the polling units — know who you are voting for. Women must support one another to succeed,” she emphasized. Traditional leaders from the host community also voiced strong support. Obongawan Effanga Mkpa, village head of Ikot Effanga, called for gender-sensitive laws and fair representation in governance.
“Men should support women and stop being part of an oppressive patriarchal structure,” she urged. Hon. Bassey Edet, the Council Secretary, pledged local government collaboration with WRAPA, calling for both legislative reform and grassroots mobilization. “PWDs should not be sidelined — there is ability in disability,” he affirmed.
The event provided a vital platform for community members, especially PWDs, to share personal experiences with electoral exclusion. Otu Bassey, a participant, recounted past discrimination by security personnel and appealed for equitable political appointments.
This town hall is a key component of WRAPA’s broader Inclusion and Electoral Reform Initiative.
The initiative is supported by the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), and the MacArthur Foundation, in partnership with local groups including Onyx Foundation Africa and the Basic Rights Council Initiative.