By: Ibrahima yakubu
KADUNA, North-West Nigeria – The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called for political parties in Nigeria to enhance the inclusion of women, youth, and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to strengthen democracy.
During an advocacy visit to political parties in Kaduna on Monday, Executive Director AUWAL Musa RAFSANJANI emphasized the responsibility of political parties to create a balance among various interest groups in society.
He noted that providing opportunities for marginalized groups to engage in politics has become a global priority, which Nigeria must address. While party constitutions may claim inclusivity, Rafsanjani highlighted that this often does not translate into practice. “Compliance with processes and provisions that would enhance opportunities for women, youth, and PwDs is lacking,” he stated.
This advocacy follows a study by the Kukah Centre, supported by the European Union Support to Democratic Governance (EU-SDGN), which identified a pressing need for better inclusion of marginalized groups within political parties.
Rafsanjani cautioned that a lack of internal democracy and broad citizen participation can foster distrust in party processes, leading to unpopular decisions, a lack of accountability, and political violence. He also announced CISLAC’s plan to host a political summit for all parties in Kaduna State to promote inclusion.
Dr. Baba Adamu, Deputy Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), and Hon. Ahmed Tijani Mustapha, Chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Council of Nigeria (IPAC), stressed the need for increased awareness to empower citizens to make informed choices.
Dr. Adamu expressed disappointment over CISLAC’s delayed response following the recent local government elections, stating, “We expected CISLAC’s visit earlier, but unfortunately you came when many citizens are unhappy with the state leadership regarding the polls.” He echoed that the opportunity for productive discussions had been missed.
He also lamented the silence following the elections, criticizing Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) for not condemning the election process, which he claimed was flawed yet led to the swearing-in of officials. “Many of our party members feel let down by the party, believing it has failed to protect their mandate,” he said.
Hon. Mustapha, who also chairs the African Democratic Party (ADC), praised his party’s inclusive practices, highlighting their initiative, the “ADC Global Campus and Youth Transformation Centre,” aimed at empowering youth ahead of 2027. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating that excluding any group undermines nation-building.
He urged political parties to recognize the value of every individual, saying, “There are abilities in disability; let’s explore it and avoid bias in leadership.”
Party leaders recognized CISLAC’s essential advocacy for participatory democracy, emphasizing its importance not just in Kaduna State but throughout Nigeria.
