Igbo Women’s Political Participation in Nigeria: Impact of Underrepresentation on Local and National Policy Outcomes
Abstract
This article examines Igbo women's political participation in Nigeria, focusing on its effects on policy outcomes at local and national levels. Although women make up around half of Nigeria's population, they hold less than 5 per cent of seats in the federal parliament. Igbo women face even greater marginalisation within the political structures of the South-East region. The study draws on secondary data from the Independent National Electoral Commission and the National Bureau of Statistics, as well as scholarly literature from 1999 to 2025. It uses intersectional feminist theory and the revised National Gender Policy as analytical tools. Findings reveal a paradox: Igbo women excel at grassroots mobilisation and constitute significant voting blocs, yet rarely secure elective or appointive positions. This is due to patriarchal cultural norms, party barriers, and economic exclusion. Their underrepresentation impacts policy. Neglect of women-centric infrastructure, little legislative attention to maternal health and gender-based violence, and a lack of gender perspectives in South-East state budgets are some consequences. From 1999 to 2023, Igbo women held fewer than 4 per cent of National Assembly seats in the South-East, and no female governor has been elected in the five South-East states. The article adds to debates on the gap between participation and representation. It argues that increasing numbers without removing structural barriers leads to "participation without power." The article recommends implementing the Reserved Seats Bill, enforcing the 35 per cent affirmative action, and deliberately including women in party leadership.
Keywords
Igbo Women, Political Participation, Underrepresentation, Policy Outcomes, Nigeria, Affirmative Action, Gender Equality
Citations
IRE Journals:
Ebele Eucahria Okafor, Mabel Nkechinyere Eze "Igbo Women’s Political Participation in Nigeria: Impact of Underrepresentation on Local and National Policy Outcomes" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 10 2026 Page 1150-1161
IEEE:
Ebele Eucahria Okafor, Mabel Nkechinyere Eze
"Igbo Women’s Political Participation in Nigeria: Impact of Underrepresentation on Local and National Policy Outcomes" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(10)
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