Protest as UN, Buhari, others celebrate women on Women’s Day

Women in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on Monday, staged a protest against hunger, hardship and insecurity in the country to mark this year’s International Women’s Day.

They also called for the immediate resignation of the President, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), for incompetence.

Addressing journalists on behalf of the women, Mrs Stell Ajadi, lamented the lack of basic amenities in their community.

Ajadi rebuked the President for his silence over persistent attacks by bandits and herdsmen across the country.

She said, “We need empowerment, no money to do business. We don’t have potable water. We are wives and mothers and we are suffering. The insecurity and economic situation which led to the general increase of prices of goods is worrisome and uncalled for. The President should resign if he cannot protect the people.”

Any government that ignores women risks stunted growth - Buhari

However, far away in the Aso Villa, Buhari (retd.), on Monday felicitated with Nigerian women on International Women’s Day, describing them as the bedrock of society.

With females forming about half of the country’s population, the President said any “government which neglects such a crucial component of its demographic asset stands the risk of stunted growth and likely failure.”

Buhari’s message was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, titled, “2021 International Women’s Day: President Buhari salutes Nigerian women, calls them the bedrock of society.”

Noting that the theme of the 2021 celebration, “Choose to challenge,” is apt, the statement said Buhari rejoiced with the womenfolk and restated his administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges confronting them.

“I am proud of our women who have shown by dint of hard work and capacity that they can perform creditably if given the opportunity at home and on the global stage,” he was quoted as saying.

The Country Representative of UN women in Nigeria, Comfort Lamptey, stated this during a national policy dialogue in commemoration of International Women’s Day.

She said, “As estimated, the 18 million female learners across primary, secondary and tertiary education have been affected by the school closure. This is deeply concerning for the future of girls education in communities where their enrolment was already low.

“The COVID–19 pandemic is having a disproportionate impact on the lives of women and girls. Without a doubt, this pandemic in the words of the UN Secretary-General has a woman’s face.”

While explaining the various struggles of Nigerian women through the years, the Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, said the IWD presents a unique opportunity for women to take stock of their demands for equality, development and peace.