Labour Party’s National Women Leader Condemns Harassment of Female Politicians
In a powerful speech, Dudu Manuga, the National Women Leader of the Labour Party, decried the pervasive culture of cyber stalking and intimidation targeting some women, particularly politicians, and implored Nigerians to cease labeling female politicians as prostitutes.
This bold statement was made during the commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls in Abuja.
Manuga urged women in politics to stand strong against the pervasive emotional and psychological violence perpetrated by their male counterparts, stating that such tactics aim to create a state of perpetual worry among women.
She observed that violence against women is an endemic problem, extending far beyond rape and sexual assault. “It’s a daily reality in our offices, our homes, and our communities,” she said.
The Labour Party leader emphasized that female politicians often face harassment, intimidation, and subtle forms of psychological manipulation, which can erode confidence and disturb their sense of self-worth. “It’s a toxic environment where women are constantly questioned, belittled, and judged,” she lamented.
Manuga specifically pointed out that some individuals, even those in positions of authority, perpetuate harmful stereotypes about women in politics. “They view us as loose and promiscuous women, simply because we occupy positions of power,” she said, reiterating that this narrative is both damaging and inaccurate.
