By Cajetan Mmuta
The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Willie Obiano on Social Re-Orientation, Dr. Mitchelle Onugbolu has advised women in Anambra state to ensure active participation in politics aimed at shaping the political climate of the state, particularly, as the people prepare for the November 6 governorship election in the state.

Onugbolu gave the advice during the 2021 Akwa Ibom Women Conference, themed, “Repositioning Women for Adaptability in an Ever-Evolving World” held in Awka, the state capital.

She said, “Women must have retrospection of themselves. If you can do it and have what it takes, lobby for it and you’ll see the men supporting you.”

The governor’s aide lamented that the apathetic disposition of most women in political activities, pointing out that the age-long indoctrination and culturalization were instrumental to such development in the nation’s political space.

She said the situation had been made worse by a few who found themselves in political positions but could not deliver due to a lack of adequate preparations and apparent intimidation from their male counterparts.

She said, “I think it’s a long stretch indoctrination and culturalization of women not believing in themselves. People always equate women to children and think they are like them.

“Sometimes, men are bullies, instilling fears in women that they can’t do it. For them, any woman that comes out will be frustrated.

In his speech, President of Akwa Ibom Community in the State, Akparawa Edet said the event was targeted at rebranding the association and reshaping the minds of members, especially the women towards positive thinking.

He said, “Since a new administration came on board, we’ve been trying to rebrand the association, in terms of our activities and the way we think and reason.

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“This event, the first of its kind in the history of the association in the state is part of the rebranding. Our women have a lot to contribute to the development of the state, including voting for credible candidates in the forthcoming election.

On the alleged marginalization of non-indigenes in the state, Edet said, “You can’t rule out marginalization in any society because human wants are insatiable. Even some of the indigenes themselves complain of marginalization.

He added that “As nonindigenes, we need a governor that will provide us with enabling environment for growth and business success. We’ll keep on pushing for positive actions to ensure better lives for our people in the state.”