The National Assembly was invaded by a large throng of irate women on Wednesday, who claimed they had come to demand greater participation in the country’s governance.
Over 200 women gathered at the National Assembly’s entrance, carrying various placards and singing various songs in what has become known as “Occupy National Assembly.”
Many of the women were seen seated, but some were seen standing.
They claimed that in the future, women will no longer be satisfied with a 10% female participation rate.
Women are already battling against constitutional amendment legislation on equality that were passed yesterday, indicating that parliamentarians rejected a bill that sought to create special seats for women in the National Assembly.
Aisha Buhari, the President’s wife, had backed the law. The bill was believed to have received 208 votes against it in the House of Representatives.
Gender advocates had mobilized for today’s event, calling on women to speak out against the bill’s rejection.