WOMEN AS VICTIMS OF ELECTORAL VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF OSOFISAN'S ARESTLESS RUN OFLOCUSTS

Abstract

This paper examines women in politics, political violence directed at women and their roles in the political process coupled with the issues that make them victims of electoral violence in the country’s emerging democracy. Until recently, the political turf has been viewed by many as belonging exclusively to men and this explains why women are rarely seen at the centre stage of political activities in the country. Considering the new political dispensation where the electorate’s votes now have the potential to count, the paper investigates possible factors that can perpetuate the continued participation of women at the periphery and at times outright exclusion in active politics. Using Femi Osofisan’s A Restless Run of Locusts the paper identifies electoral violence, intimidation and thuggery as factors militating against women’s active participation in politics and electoral process. Findings also reveal that some women could be victims of electoral violence by their political affiliations and relationship with political figures and not because they stand to contest election. It was, therefore, suggested that political parties should go beyond 35 per cent affirmative action to create a level playing field and a political environment devoid of tension, and electoral violence through constitutional amendment, party restructuring and empowerment. This no doubt will give women the opportunity to contribute to the growth of democracy and the quest for nation-building in the socio-political milieu.