Can they ever Accomplish 35% Representation? Radio and Political Participation of Nigerian Women

Abstract

Men in Nigeria predominately occupy political positions despite the 35% affirmative action quota by the democratic government and media campaign on the inclusion of women in politics. The study examined the influence of radio on women's political participation in Nigerian politics. It focused on investigating the influence of radio in the political engagement and mobilisation of select women in Makurdi to politically participate in the 2019 elections and ascertain the extent of the use. Hinged on the Democratic Participant Theory, the study adopted the survey research method and purposively selected 200 respondents from the Makurdi metropolis. Findings show a significant increase in interest in political participation due to media access and radio use for political campaigns in Makurdi. The finding implies that despite influences of pervasive social media, radio can potentially increase the number of women aspirants in the political offices if adequately utilised. Therefore, the study recommends the location of community radios in local communities for easy access to women and increased political participation.

KEYWORDS: Women, Nigeria, Election, Radio, Political Participation