Eminent chief, traditional council push for women inclusion in chieftaincy governance

Following the heightened advocacy for gender equality, His Royal Majesty of Abura State with his council leaders has called for women's inclusion in chieftaincy governance.

The move, according to the Abura State leadership, would afford women the rightful place in society to contribute their quota to societal development.

The resolution was reached at a meeting presided over by His Royal Majesty, Eminence Emintsimimin Otu XI. Being one of the measures taken by the Abura State to mitigate women's exclusion in the governance architecture within the Abura State, the leadership is committed to its implementation.

In addition, the proposed measure, he observed will enable tapping into the plethora of knowledge deposit of women within the traditional area. According to His Royal Majesty, His Eminence Emintsimimin Otu XI, the only way to tap into the knowledge deposit of an individual is by offering them the space to contribute their quota in the decision-making process.

The measure according to His Royal Majesty, could be achieved through regular capacity building and empowerment as well as workshops which will develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to engage effectively.

"Chieftaincy governance within Abura State over generations had been the preserve of males but the time has come for retrospection in revising the status quo", he added. 

Given the circumstances, leadership believes the century-old norm deserves a facelift to enable women to take their place in chieftaincy rulership within the Abura State.

He disclosed, "Even though the tradition has made it that most of the stools should be occupied by men in the traditional governance system.

However, women's inclusion in the traditional decision-making process will be a progressive move that can bring about positive change and inclusivity".

Recognizing the immense contributions of women in society, the council acknowledges that a place for women will serve a good purpose.

"With the inclusion of women in chieftaincy governance, leadership and decision-making within the Abura State will promote greater inclusivity and representation within the leadership structures, ultimately strengthening governance, fostering social cohesion, and advancing the well-being of the community as a whole", the eminent chief intimated.

He maintained that involving women in the chieftaincy rule would promote gender equality and also encourage the council to adopt policies and practices aimed at promoting equal opportunities to better serve in leadership.