Benue State University, Makurdi

Review Of The Determinants Of Women Involvement In Politics. The Kogi State Experience.

Egwemi-Ugbeda C. Ejura

Abstract

Kogi state in Nigeria, particularly in the Kogi East Constituency, is characterized by high poverty and gender disparity. This study is aimed at examining the factors responsible for this development and providing potential solutions for women's involvement in politics. The study employed documentary approach in gathering data and feminist theory as its theoretical base. The research found that poverty, lack of education, systematic underdevelopment, and lack of empowerment are significant contributors to women's low involvement in politics. To address this, the study suggested providing women with civic and technical support, particularly through educational opportunities, to stimulate their interest and engagement in political affairs. Social capital, which is influenced by their capacity for organization and mobilization, should also be considered. The study concluded that there is a significant relationship between gender inequality, poverty, and the female gender. It advocated for a well-balanced representation of both genders in the political arena to foster a positive transformation and contribution to women's involvement in politics. The study suggested strong commitment to gender mainstreaming by the government, National Orientation Agency, political parties, the organized business sector, investors, and women organizations in Kogi East. The achievement of these goals can be facilitated by involving more women as stakeholders and policy makers, promoting gender parity, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 in the Kogi East region.

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