The Effect of Gender-Based Electoral Violence on Women’s Political Participation in Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State

The Effect of Gender-Based Electoral Violence on Women’s Political Participation in Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State

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Background of the Study

Gender-based electoral violence refers to acts of violence that are targeted at individuals or groups based on their gender, particularly women, in the context of elections. In many parts of Nigeria, including Wase Local Government Area in Plateau State, women face unique challenges in political participation due to various forms of violence, harassment, and intimidation during elections (Alhaji & Adebayo, 2023). These forms of violence often discourage women from engaging in the political process, whether as voters, candidates, or political activists, thereby limiting their influence in shaping electoral outcomes.

In Wase LGA, women have historically been underrepresented in political leadership positions and decision-making processes. Gender-based electoral violence, such as physical assaults, verbal abuse, and threats, has further marginalized women from active political engagement. This issue is exacerbated by cultural norms and traditional practices that restrict women’s participation in public affairs. The study of gender-based electoral violence in Wase LGA provides valuable insights into the challenges women face in politics and the impact of such violence on their willingness and ability to participate in the electoral process.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the significant strides made in promoting gender equality in Nigeria’s political landscape, gender-based electoral violence continues to be a major barrier to women’s political participation in many parts of the country. In Wase LGA, this violence has created an environment where women are discouraged from participating in elections, either as candidates or voters. The problem is that, while gender-based violence in elections has been studied in some Nigerian contexts, there is limited research focused on its specific impact on women’s political participation in Wase LGA. This study aims to explore how gender-based electoral violence influences women’s involvement in the political process in Wase, Plateau State.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To assess the impact of gender-based electoral violence on women’s political participation in Wase LGA.

2. To investigate the forms of gender-based violence women face during elections in Wase LGA.

3. To explore the strategies used by women in Wase LGA to overcome the challenges posed by electoral violence.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How does gender-based electoral violence affect women’s political participation in Wase LGA?

2. What forms of gender-based violence do women encounter during elections in Wase LGA?

3. What strategies do women use to navigate gender-based violence and engage in politics in Wase LGA?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

1. Gender-based electoral violence negatively affects women’s political participation in Wase LGA.

2. Women in Wase LGA experience multiple forms of gender-based violence during elections.

3. Women in Wase LGA employ various coping strategies to overcome the challenges of gender-based electoral violence.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it will provide a deeper understanding of the barriers women face in political participation in Wase LGA, particularly in the context of gender-based electoral violence. The findings will be important for policymakers, gender advocacy groups, and political leaders working to create an inclusive and violence-free electoral environment for women. By shedding light on these challenges, the study aims to contribute to the development of strategies and policies to protect women from electoral violence and increase their participation in political processes.

1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study focuses on Wase Local Government Area in Plateau State, specifically examining the impact of gender-based electoral violence on women’s political participation. The research is limited to the electoral process in the most recent elections and does not cover other forms of gender-based violence outside of the electoral context. Limitations include possible difficulties in gathering data due to the sensitivity of the issue and reluctance of some women to report their experiences with violence.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

• Gender-Based Electoral Violence: Acts of violence or intimidation targeting individuals based on their gender, particularly women, during the electoral process.

• Political Participation: Involvement in the electoral process, either as a voter, candidate, or political activist.

• Coping Strategies: The methods or tactics used by individuals to manage or overcome challenges, in this case, related to gender-based violence in politics.

 

 

 

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