EX-LAWMAKER LAUDS UZODIMMA'S CHOICE OF A FEMALE RUNNING MATE - A PROOF OF COMMITMENT TO GENDER BALANCE

A former member of the Imo House of Assembly, Mrs Ngozi Obiefule, has come out to laud Gov. Hope Uzodimma’s choice of a female running mate and she described it as an evidence of his commitment to gender balance.

The lawmaker commended Governor Uzodimma for agreeing to heed the call for greater women’s participation in governance and called on politicians at all levels to follow the same path, as this is, according to her, in line with the National Gender Policy, demanding for 35% affirmative action for women.

Obiefule, who represented Isu state constituency in Imo on two-term, made this known while interacting with newsmen in Owerri on Monday. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Uzodimma, candidate of the ruling APC for the November 11 governorship election in Imo, unveiled Mrs Nnedinma Ekomaru as his running mate on Saturday.

Obiefule stated that with zero women representation in the current Imo Assembly as constituted, the governor’s choice of Ekomaru was significant of his respect for gender equality and inclusivity.

The Ex-lawmaker said “By choosing a female running mate, Gov. Uzodimma has sent a clear message that he values the role of women in politics and recognises their ability to contribute effectively to the development and progress of the state.

“ This decision will inspire and empower more women to actively engage in politics, ultimately leading to a more representative and equitable society.”

Obiefule added that as a Catholic faithful, Uzodimma’s choice of a Pentecostal in a chiefly Christian state, would give non Catholics a sense of accommodation. She expressed confidence that more women would be given prominence and a greater sense of inclusion if Gov. Uzodimma eventually emerged winner of the election.

“In many ways, this decision is strategic and we hope it results in greater good for Imo people,” she said.