Gender and the politics of inclusiveness in Nigeria

In recent years, there has been an increasing clamour for a progressive inclusion of women in the political life of society, especially in its law making body. This it is argued will enhance the institutionalization of democratic ethos in the society. The past two decades have witnessed an impressive rise in women’s political representation around the world. However, Nigeria has achieved little progress in this regard as women are still under represented in its political life. Consequently, this study advocates for the adoption of proportional representation in the body politics as a panacea towards the increasing inclusion of women in her political life. The study will rely on documentary method for its data collection. The analysis will be anchored on the analytical framework of proportional representational system. This analytical tool enables us to predict that with the adoption of proportional representation as an electoral system in Nigeria more women will be given increased opportunity to participate in decision making and therefore enhancing democratic consolidation in Nigeria. Accordingly, any effort to the contrary will be an illusion in the nearest future.