Background of the Study
Gubernatorial elections in Nigeria have historically been dominated by male candidates, with very few women successfully contesting for these high-profile political offices. This trend is especially pronounced in the northern regions, including Maiduguri, Borno State, where cultural, religious, and economic factors place significant barriers on women’s political participation (Musa & Ismail, 2024). Despite the growing awareness of gender equality and women’s rights, the barriers to women’s candidacy for gubernatorial positions remain deeply entrenched in societal norms and political structures (Bala & Aminu, 2023).
Women contesting for gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri face multifaceted challenges, including cultural perceptions that restrict women’s leadership roles, limited access to political networks, and a lack of financial resources to run competitive campaigns (Usman & Umar, 2023). Additionally, women face gendered violence, both physical and psychological, which discourages them from pursuing political office (Sulaimon & Ibrahim, 2024). While some women have made strides in lower political offices, the path to gubernatorial positions remains particularly arduous, with few women able to break through these barriers (Akanbi & Ibraheem, 2023).
This study aims to examine the specific challenges faced by women contesting gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri, analyzing the political, socio-cultural, and economic obstacles that limit their success, and offering recommendations for overcoming these challenges to promote greater gender inclusivity in Nigerian politics.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Women aspiring to contest gubernatorial elections in Maiduguri face a range of challenges that significantly limit their ability to run competitive campaigns and secure public support. Cultural norms, political exclusion, and insufficient financial backing are key factors that hinder women’s candidacies (Kalu & Danjuma, 2023). Despite some legal provisions aimed at promoting gender equality in politics, the electoral process remains heavily skewed in favor of male candidates. This study seeks to identify and examine the specific challenges that women encounter when contesting gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri, and explore ways to mitigate these obstacles.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To examine the challenges faced by women contesting gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri, Borno State.
To explore the impact of cultural and societal norms on women’s candidacies for gubernatorial elections in Maiduguri.
To evaluate the role of political party structures in supporting or hindering women’s gubernatorial aspirations in Maiduguri.
1.4 Research Questions
What are the key challenges faced by women contesting gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri?
How do cultural and societal norms influence women’s candidacies for gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri?
To what extent do political party structures support or hinder women’s gubernatorial ambitions in Maiduguri?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Cultural and societal norms significantly hinder women’s ability to contest gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri.
Political party structures either support or discourage women from contesting gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri.
Financial limitations and lack of resources are key challenges for women contesting gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the understanding of the challenges women face in contesting gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri. By identifying and analyzing these challenges, the study will inform gender-focused policies and interventions aimed at supporting women in politics, especially at the gubernatorial level. The findings will be beneficial for political parties, policymakers, and women’s rights organizations working to increase women’s representation in political leadership.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the challenges faced by women contesting gubernatorial positions in Maiduguri. Interviews with female political candidates, political analysts, and members of political parties will form the primary data source. Limitations include potential biases due to societal norms that may prevent respondents from openly discussing gender-based challenges.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Gubernatorial Positions: The office of the governor of a state, which is typically contested in a state-level election in Nigeria.
Cultural Norms: Societal beliefs and practices that dictate acceptable roles for men and women, often limiting women’s political participation.
Political Party Structures: The organizational framework of political parties, which can either support or discourage women’s candidacies.
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