Elemide Champions Inclusive Democracy as NAWOJ Seeks Special Seats Bill Backing in Ogun

Elemide Champions Inclusive Democracy as NAWOJ Seeks Special Seats Bill Backing in Ogun

The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, has reaffirmed the Assembly’s unwavering commitment to inclusive governance following a strategic advocacy visit by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), NAWOJ Ogun State Chapter, in Abeokuta.

The advocacy visit centered on securing legislative support for the Special Seats Bill (HB1349), a proposed constitutional reform aimed at addressing the persistent underrepresentation of women in legislative institutions across Nigeria.

In a formal communication to the Speaker, the Acting Chairperson of NAWOJ Ogun, Oluwatoyin Adegoke, stressed that Nigeria’s democratic system cannot achieve its full potential while women remain structurally excluded from decision-making processes.

She noted that women’s limited representation is not due to lack of competence, but rather the result of long-standing systemic barriers that require intentional legislative correction.

According to the association, the Special Seats Bill represents a crucial pathway toward strengthening democratic credibility, fairness, and balanced representation. NAWOJ therefore called on the Ogun Assembly to take a leadership role in advancing gender-inclusive governance.

The association specifically urged the Speaker to: Provide strong legislative advocacy for the passage of the Special Seats Bill.
Promote state-level resolutions that enhance women’s participation in governance.

Encourage Ogun lawmakers to align with national reforms aimed at removing barriers to women’s political leadership.
Responding, Speaker Elemide commended NAWOJ for its foresight, courage, and dedication to equity and democratic growth. He reiterated that the Assembly remains firmly committed to policies that ensure inclusiveness, fairness, and equal representation for all citizens.

He emphasized that sustainable democratic development can only be achieved when every segment of society, regardless of gender, has a voice and an opportunity to contribute to governance.
The Speaker assured the delegation that the Assembly would continue to support progressive legislative initiatives that strengthen democracy and foster a more inclusive future for Ogun State.