Date: 16th February 2026

The Imo State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) aligns unequivocally with the national leadership and sister chapters across the federation in demanding the immediate passage of the Special Seats Bill (HB1349), currently before the National Assembly of Nigeria.

As women journalists and advocates for equity, justice, and democratic accountability, we recognize that the persistent underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s legislative institutions constitutes a serious democratic deficit.

No democracy can truly thrive when half of its population remains marginalised in political leadership and decision-making processes.

The Special Seats Bill is not about privilege.
It is not about tokenism.
It is about justice.
It is about correcting historical imbalance.
It is about strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through deliberate structural reform.
For decades, Nigerian women have demonstrated competence, resilience, and capacity across sectors ,law, education, business, media, public service, and community leadership. Yet political representation has not reflected this reality.

The Special Seats Bill provides a practical and strategic framework to bridge this gap and ensure inclusive governance.
NAWOJ Imo State therefore calls on:
All Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members representing Imo State at the National Assembly to rise above partisan interests to vote in favour of the Bill without dilution or delay.

The Imo State House of Assembly to publicly endorse and support national efforts aimed at increasing women’s political representation.

Political parties, civil society organisations, professional bodies, traditional institutions, and community leaders across Imo State to lend visible and vocal support to this reform.
Inclusive governance strengthens accountability, enhances policy responsiveness, and accelerates socio-economic development. The empowerment of women in leadership is not a concession it is a constitutional and democratic imperative.

As part of our coordinated state-level advocacy, ,
NAWOJ Imo State will:

Engage key stakeholders and lawmakers within the state.

Organise strategic media engagements to educate the public on the importance of the Bill.

Collaborate with women groups, youth organisations, and civil society actors to amplify advocacy efforts.

Sustain public discourse until meaningful legislative action is achieved.

This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy.

A vote for the Special Seats Bill is a vote for equity.
A vote for the Special Seats Bill is a vote for inclusive governance.

A vote for the Special Seats Bill is a vote for a stronger and more representative Nigeria.

Imo women are watching.
Nigeria is watching.
History is watching.
We stand united, determined, and resolute.
Inclusion is non-negotiable.

Signed:

Dorothy Nnaji Ph.D
Chairperson
NAWOJ Imo State Chapter

Onyinyechi Amakaulo JP
Secretary
NAWOJ Imo State Chapter