GENDER EQUITY AND WOMEN UNDERREPRESENTATION IN POLITICS IN OYO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The underrepresentation of women in politics is a significant issue that affects governance and societal development. This study examines the historical and persistent challenges women face in achieving equitable political representation, particularly in Nigeria, where patriarchal traditions have long marginalized women. The emergence of the Nigerian women's movement and the establishment of key policies like the National Gender Policy are important milestones, yet significant obstacles remain. The study highlights the need to address these challenges to ensure that women can actively contribute to political processes and influence the nation's future. The study is anchored on feminist political theory and In-Depth interviews and questionnaire were the instruments used to collect the data. The findings of the study show that structural barriers such as financial constraints, socio-cultural expectations, and political party dynamics are limiting women. The results indicate that while progress has been made in increasing awareness of women's political rights and representation, systemic barriers persist. Cultural norms continue to reinforce the idea that politics is a male-dominated field, discouraging many women from pursuing leadership roles. Economic constraints further compound the problem, as political campaigns require significant financial backing, which many women lack. Additionally, the exclusionary structures within political parties make it difficult for women to secure meaningful leadership positions, limiting their influence in decision-making processes. Addressing these barriers will require a collaborative effort from government institutions, political parties, civil society organizations, and local communities. Ultimately, achieving greater gender parity in politics is not just about fairness; it is about fostering a more inclusive and representative democracy. A political landscape that actively includes women leads to better governance, more balanced policy-making, and a society where every voice regardless of gender has an equal opportunity to be heard.