A group of women keen to reduce imbalances in access to technology and to amplify the voices of women in society, TechHerNG, has presented an inclusive representation, functional security infrastructure, as part of their expectations from the next governor of Enugu State.
The demands of the group were documented in their ‘Good Governance Banners’ delivered to candidates of political parties in the state’s governorship race.
The group of women and youths in the state, through its Project Lead, Achenyo Ochijenu, at a press conference on Wednesday, noted the importance of women’s participation in shaping the future of the country.
Ochijenu revealed that the Signpost Project is a channel designed for political office holders and candidates to listen to the challenges women face when exercising their franchise as citizens, and their expectations for whoever emerges as the next governor of the state.
While describing the group as non-political but a community of learning, support, and collaboration for women, she disclosed that part of their expectations from the next governorship in the state include the provision and job security.
The Independent National Electoral Commission had fixed March 11 for governorship and House of Assembly elections.
She noted that the sensitisation of the group was to ensure everyone is involved in political participation, saying it is to demand accountability and excellence from elected leaders.
“We went to the markets, we went to universities, we listened to civil society, we listened to youth speak about the Enugu of their dreams. We did all these to build and invest in the elections, for our young women and youth to get involved in elections but beyond that, continue to demand accountability and excellence from their leaders,” she said.
According to Ochijenu, part of the demands from residents of the state for the incoming government include protection of women and girls from sexual and gender-based violence, provision of drinkable water, constant payment of salary, provision of security and quality education, access to opportunities and jobs.
Residents of the state decried the incessant strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, disruptions of business and economy caused by insecurity and the sit-at-home order, inflation, and many other challenges faced.
Ochijenu said the engagement was aimed to educate the residents who are qualified to vote on the need to be more proactive and engage in civic activities.
“Several respondents said they recognised the importance of participating in civic processes via engagement with the Signpost Project and pledged the continued exercise of their franchise,” Ochijenu said.
