Tag Archives: Women

CAUSES OF MARITAL INFIDELITY AMONG MARRIED WOMEN

PUBLIC PERCEPTION ON THE PREVALENCE AND CAUSES OF MARITAL INFIDELITY AMONG MARRIED WOMEN

ABSTRACT

Every society has its norms and values about sex in marital relationship. Infidelity in marriage is a social issue various society, religion, and age frown at. Married women are known to be chaste and faithful to their marital vows. This practice is gradually waning. This study examined the prevalence and causes of marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North local government area, Enugu State. The study was conducted between November 2017 and May 2018 based on a survey of 400 respondents through the use of multi-stage sampling technique. The information for this study was obtained from the respondents using questionnaires & in-depth interview. The stated research questions formed the basis for data analysis. The data were collated and analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software version 20. The findings, among other things, show that majority of the respondents were aware that married women engage in marital infidelity. 77.6% agreed to sexual infidelity as the most common form of infidelity, and 28.5% agreed to economic support as the major reasons why women engage in infidelity through. Religious opposition and customs were found to have a significant influence on the attitude towards marital infidelity in Enugu North local government area. The researcher therefore suggests a need to educate the people on the health challenges and other problems associated with marital infidelity. This should be accompanied by sanctions for defaulters. Economic empowerment of women would go a long way in discouraging marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State.

 

CHAPTER ONE

 INTRODUCTION

1.1     Background of the Study

Marriage is one of the oldest institutions associated with human society. It is one that has repeatedly been emphasized in every society and constitutes the yardstick for the determination of responsibility in the families. Ofoegbu (2002)   defined marriage as an arrangement of social structure which results in the establishment of a relationship of a legal customary or religious bond between a man and his wife for the propagation of the family root through procreation and sharing of various types of other acceptable relationship norms. Marriage of some kind is found virtually in every society. But throughout the centuries, marriage has taken many different forms. Understanding of marriage contrasts greatly from culture to culture, some view the institution as endogamous (men were required to marry within their social group, family, clan or tribe), exogamous (marrying outside the geographical region or social group) or polygamous (allowing people (both men and women) to take more than one partner.

Denga (1990) as cited in Yahaya, Esere, Ogunsanmi & Onye (2008) states that marriage is a partnership contract without escape clauses because it connotes a lifelong arrangement where the couple should permanently survive a multitude of demanding situations such as illness, financial constraints and so on. At any given time in human history, a family comes into existence each time a marriage is successfully contracted. The family is the most important primary group and the smallest social unit in any particular society. Family setting is universal because the human society exists or has existed with some form of family organization. Akubue & Okolo, (2008) referred to family as any group of people who interact and communicate with each other such as husband, wife and children in organizational settings. In the Nigeria context, because of the phenomenon of the extended family system, the family is made up of married people, their off springs and immediate kith and kin and other dependents (Onwuasonya, 2006).

From creation, every society has its traditional practices such as loving one’s spouse, having sex only with ones partner among others, which are pronounced during marriage ceremonies are expected of couples to boost the image and self-esteem of their partners. Some partners deviate from these norms and exhibit it outside their marital homes. This has been a source of marital dispute and instability among couples. The negative outcome of this often times impacts the children psychologically and socially (Fernando, 2013). Contemporary society is bedeviled with marital problems which are not in accordance with the standards, norms and values of traditional society.

Marital fidelity has been known not only to keep a family together but also a generation of individuals that respect the sanctity of marriage. People get married with fidelity in mind but infidelity has always been documented to affect almost 80% of marriage around the world. Infidelity in marriage is a social issue various society, religion and age frown at, and as a result stringent measures are placed to curtail this act. In some societies, the penalty could be as stiff as death. However, infidelity strives leaving the people to wonder why it has taken a form of legacy passed from one generation to the other. (Ejaifo, 2012).

Infidelity in marriage is gradually becoming a norm. Female infidelity is the new trend because extra marital sex by men is socially tolerated and in many respects, even socially rewarded. The prevalence of married men’s participation in extra marital sex in Nigeria is well documented (Karanja, 1987; Onusuloye, Caldwell & Caldwell, 1997; Lawoyin & Larsen, 2002; Mitsunaga, Powell, Antonia, Heard, Nathan, Larsen., 2005). A report out of the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University found that for the first time in modern history, women are cheating at nearly the same rate as men. Another study, published in the National Opinion Research center’s 2013 General Social Survey, found that while the percentage of men who admitted to infidelity has held constant over the last two decades, the percentage of wives who reported having affairs rose almost 40 percent.

Before the advent of civilization, married women, no matter the conditions they found themselves never became promiscuous; they remained chaste and faithful to their vows. Cheating among Nigerian women is the new trend, which is abstract and very different to what was in existence two decades ago, when women were faithful, patient and more tolerating (Ejaifo, 2012).        

Against this background, this study is aimed at investigating the causes of marital infidelity among women in Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State.

1.2     Statement of the Problem 

Marital infidelity among women which was a rare phenomenon has apparently become common place today in the Nigerian society. According to a new report by Durex, a condom manufacturing company in 2012, Nigerian women are ranked the most unfaithful in the world with 62 percent.

Infidelity impacts strongly on the functionality and stability of relationship (Drigotas, Safstrom, & Gontlia, 1999; Whisman, Dixon & Johnson, 1997).

John Kester, a sociologist at the University of Lagos reports that infidelity not only hurts the relationship but has an adverse impact on family life, particularly if children are involved. When a mother is having an affair there is a different reaction in children, this is because the mother is still most often considered the focus of the family and of course when the child learns of an affair, he or she is in danger of testing confidence in the inability of marriage and family.

Research on marital infidelity shows that it  leads to marital strife leading to divorce, wife battering, prostitution in urban areas, children born of different fathers and the spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) (National Aids Control Council (NACC), 2007). Marital infidelity has been associated with increased risk of mental health problems, including depression and anxiety (Cano & O’ Leary, 2000).

Marital Infidelity by impacts negatively on the development in any given area due to its effect on people involved. Resources that are made for the development of the family are deviated to cater for extra-marital affairs and the treatment of HIV/AIDS (Kenya Forum, 2013). Infidelity by women could also enhance the spread of sexually transmitted disease (STD) such as gonorrhea, Chlamydia, syphilis, and many others. Reproductive health of the women are most times usually affected, thus resulting to loss of lives by the women or mothers, thereby making their children become orphans, or even school dropouts, thus becoming touts and juvenile deliquents.

Despite its negative effects on the health of their family members and the society at large, it is worrisome to observe that married women still indulge in extramarital affairs. What could be behind this rise? Could it be that married women are lacking some fundamental needs in family relationship which they seek to satisfy from external sources?

It is in view of these concerns that this study is being carried out to find out the prevalence and causes of marital infidelity by women in Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State.       

1.3     Research Questions

The following research questions were put forward to guide the study:

  1. What are the patterns of marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North L.G.A. of Enugu state?
  2. What are the attitudes of people towards marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North L. G. A. of Enugu State?
  3. What are the factors responsible for marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North L. G. A. of Enugu State?
  4. What are the challenges resulting from marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North L. G. A. of Enugu State?
  5. What strategies can be put in place to reduce or address the prevalence of marital infidelity among women in Enugu North L.G.A, of Enugu State?

1.4     Objectives of the Study

The main objective of the study was to ascertain the causes of marital infidelity among women in Enugu North L. G. A. of Enugu State.

The specific objectives of the study were as follows:

  1. To find out the patterns of marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North L. G. A, of Enugu State.
  2. To identify the attitude of people towards marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North L. G. A of Enugu State.
  3. To ascertain the factors responsible for marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North L. G. A, of Enugu State.
  4. To investigate the challenges resulting from infidelity among married women in Enugu North L. G. A of Enugu State.
  5. To proffer plausible solutions/strategies that will help curtail the prevalence of marital infidelity among women in Enugu North L. G. A, of Enugu State.

1.5     Significance of the Study

This study has both practical and theoretical significance.

Practically, the study will help to resuscitate marriage and improve marriage relationship by helping married people to keep to their marital vows and have healthy spousal relationships. It will help to create societal awareness on the damages and harm of infidelity, if not properly curbed.

Theoretically, the findings will give first-hand information to religious leaders, marriage counselors, women organizations on the prevalence and causes of marital infidelity among women, with a view to give proper counseling to spouses either before or during the marriage sessions. With the knowledge, the curriculum planners would include issues that bother on family and procreation into subjects like, Sociology, Civic Education, Sexuality Education and Social Studies. Findings of the study will also add to existing knowledge and literature that have addressed the issue of marital infidelity among married women in Enugu North Local Government Area, Enugu State and Nigeria at large.

1.6     Definition of terms

Attitude: It refers to the way we think or view someone or something.

Couple: This refers to two people who are married, are living together or having an intimate relationship, as socially approved.   

Divorce: It is the legal ending of marriage between couples so that husband and wife are free to remarry again.

Early marriage: Early marriage is a marriage that occurs before a person reaches the age of consent (18 years). It is also known as child marriage.

Gender: It refers to culturally and historically specific concepts of femininity and masculinity. It reflects the power relations between men and women; social construction of sex roles between men and women.

Infidelity: It is referred to as cheating or adultery when married. It is a violation of a couple’s assumed or stated contract regarding emotional and or sexual exclusivity.

Marriage: In the context of this study, marriage can be seen as the legalizing of a special relationship between a man and a woman to which the society gives its approval. It places each partner under legal and social obligations to the other and to the society.

Pattern: A particular way in which something is done, or been organized or happens.

Prevalence: It is a term which means being widespread. It tells us about the number of particular events in the community.

Socio-Economic Factors: These are conditions that necessitate and sustain the status of individuals in family and community in terms of formal education, occupation, income, health and cultural freedom.       

 

Click to: DOWNLOAD @ NGN5,000/USD20

 

Loading

GENDER AND POLITICS IN ENUGU STATE: A CASE STUDY OF WOMEN IN PARTICIPATION, 1999- 2016

GENDER AND POLITICS IN ENUGU STATE: A CASE STUDY OF WOMEN IN PARTICIPATION, 1999- 2016

ABSTRACT

This research was embarked on to evaluate gender and politics and women in politics in Nigeria with special interest in Enugu State 1999-2016. The study formulated three objectives and three research questions to navigate the study. The major limitation to this study was that women participation in politics in Enugu State has no much record for use for analysis. In the literature review, the study looks at empirical study of women participation in politics. The study adopted feminist political theory as a theoretical framework and expos facto design as its methodology. The study used secondary data as method of data collection and content analysis as method of data analysis.  Afterword, the study found out in gender discrimination, politics should be reserved only for women who have come up of age and do not have much house chores. This according to the study brings about women career adjustment in other to rescue home situation and that of politics. The study recommends that in other to defeat the cultural factor that hinder women in participating in politics there should be mass education of women and gender enlightenment campaign that will create a balance of gender sensitivity in policy and political decision making.

  

Chapter One

Introduction

1.1     Background of Study

One of the fundamental challenges confronting women in every political system centers on the pervasive phenomenon of political alienation and domination of women by their male counterpart. From the local to global level, women’s leadership and political participation are restricted. Women are underrepresented as voters, as well as in leading positions whether in elected offices, the civil service, the private sector or academician. This occurs despite their proven abilities as leaders and agents of change and their right to participate equally in democratic governance. Women face several obstacles to participating in political life. Structural barriers through discriminatory laws and institutions still limit women’s options to run for offices. Over the years, the debilitating condition of gender inequality and discrimination against women in political participation and representation has given rise to the agitation for empowerment to enable an increase in their levels of political participation all over the world. In this regard, empowerment implies the creation of an enabling environment where individuals can fully use their capabilities to take charge of their lives. Women empowerment therefore, means investing in women’s right with legal backing, moral and financial support to enable women function effectively. Women empowerment also involves assessment of women’s needs and designing programmes to address those needs.

The increasing agitations for gender equality have raised intense academic discourse on poor participation of women in politics all over the world (Peterson & Ruyan, 1999: 48 & Akinboye, 2004:233). Women’s low political participation is a universal phenomenon (Waylen, 1996:11; Akinboye, op.cit:233; Lewu, 2005:62 &Rai, 2005). However the imperative of women participation in democratic governance cannot be over emphasized (Amadiume, 1997:81; Bruce, 2004:113; Babatunde, 2003; Bari, 2005). Sustainable democracy relies upon the equality and complementary participation of men and women in the conduct of the affairs of society through political processes (Sodaro, 2001:247, Anifowose, 2004:205; Akiyode-Afolabi&Arogundade, 2003). However, despite widespread democratization in most countries, women record poor participation in politics and decision making process across the world (Waylen, op.cit:10; Pokam, 2006; Henderson, 2006; Pascaud-Becane, 1999; Babatunde, op.cit; Anifowose, op.cit:204 & Bari, op.cit).

In Nigeria, although women constitute half the national population, the average representation of women in national politics has hardly ever been more than 3% (Ajayi, 2007:138; IPU, 2007; Nigeria CEDAW NGO Coalition Shadow Report, 2008). The challenge of women’s participation in Nigeria’s politics became worrisome following the country’s return to democracy in 1999. With the transfer of power from the military regime to a civilian democratic administration, one had expected a substantial improvement in women’s political participation in the country. On the contrary, the percentage increase in women’s political participation were 2%, 4% and 6%  and women representation in the national parliament, 6.3%, 8.8% and 7.3% in 1999, 2003 and 2007 elections respectively (Okocha, 2007; Akioyede-Afolabietal, 2003; The Nigeria CEDAW NGO Coalition Shadow Report, op.cit:3 & Adu, 2008:27). It is obvious therefore, that the perception that democracy would automatically boost women’s political involvement in Nigeria has not been validated after several years of its return to civilian rule.

The foregoing indicated that alongside men’s political association in most parts of Nigeria, particularly in Igbo society, like in Enugu State, women also had their own well organized political groups which were solely managed by women leaders in various communities. For instance, in Enugu State, the Umuada at the community and village levels had appreciable political and economic influence through established associations that are well managed and solely run by them. “Their powers and influence go beyond issues that affect trade to issues of governance at the state level. Igbo women’s movement and some others in Southern Nigeria have struggled to maintain some respectable level of power and influence in their communities” (Garba, 1999:2).Women can be described as an indispensable group in the development of any nation. Women constitute a critical segment of the Nigerian population. Thus, “the population of women in the present day is estimated to over 55% of the total population of this country,” (Yahaya, 1999:132). Apart from their numerical strength, women have great potentials necessary to evolve a new economic order, to accelerate social and political development and constantly transforming the society into a better one.

Women are active in the agriculture and economic sectors of the society and have also contributed immensely to the decolonization and general development of Nigerian state. Olawoye (1985:18), describes Nigerian women “as a crucial factor of production”. According to him, women assume this status because they are largely responsible for the bulk production of crops, agro-base food processing, preservation of crops and distribution of yields from farm centers to urban areas”. Awe (1990:9), perceived the importance of women from their role as managers of home. She noted that “the peace and stability at homes depends largely on the managerial abilities of women folk. She stressed further that women, especially the mothers, plan, organize, direct and coordinated all the resources of the home both human and materials to the benefits of all the members of the family including their husbands”. Some of them occupy strategic positions in the governments where they have continued to prove their good character. For instance, “Dora Akunyili, Oby Ezekwesili of Due process fame, NdiOkereke Onyiuke, Ngozi OkonjoIwuala and Ambassador (Mrs.) Justina Eze, among others have undoubtedly distinguished themselves in their official assignments” (Okafor, 2010:9).

Notwithstanding, in Enugu State today, the issue of women empowerment and political representation have been a bone of contention. Since the advent of modern public administration in Enugu State, Cultural factors among others, have been a serious source of problems against the development of women politically and have continued to militate against the development and prominence of Enugu State women in their roles in politics. Enugu state politics and government have been dominated by men at all levels, not because there are no women fit to fill the positions but because most women think of political participation as irrelevant for them. Among the factors inhibiting women to take active part in political behaviors such as voting and contesting in elections is lack of proper enlightenment about politics and financial dependence among other factors.

It is therefore, in recognition of the above facts that gave light to the background of this study of Gender and politics participation in Enugu State between 1999 and 2016 and to seek ways on how to engender a balance in the political affairs of the state.

1.2     Statement of the Problem

Historical evidences in many societies, both during the ancient and modern periods support the idea of male domination over their female folks in many spheres of human endeavor. The literature on the subjugation of women to men’s domination knows no bound with such literature covering wide range of issues, including the body, class and work, disability, the family, globalization, human rights, culture, race and racism, reproduction, science, the self, sex, work, human trafficking and sexuality. Throughout ages and virtually in all cultures, women were rarely considered equal to their male counterparts. From the home as daughter, wife, and mother, through the school, office and church as student, employee and worshiper respectively, to the public sphere of life as in business and politics, women are known to have been discriminated, marginalized and dominated through the combination of gender-based cultural norms and practices which were in favour of men.

Since 1999 when the present civilian government came into power after a long period of military regime, women politicians in Enugu state like their other counterparts in other part of the federation have continued to express dismay over the low participation and alienation of women in the politics of the state. Consequently, in 2003 a female governorship aspirant, lauretta Aniagolu joined the race for the seat of governor in Enugu state. Unfortunately she was maneuvered in the party primary of the united Nigeria people party. She later joined the national conscience party and was defeated by her fellow aspirant Chimaroke Nnamani.

Therefore, the gap of the problem is on the issue of cultural disadvantage which might have impacted negatively on the women’s participation in politics and all sphere of life.

At best, women were strategically, through several means including cultural exclusion, reduced to the second fiddle offices of ‘deputy’ and ‘vice’. This development has raised several questions which remained largely unanswered, and has equally attracted many gender-related studies and intellectual discourse on gender-related matters. Against this background, this paper attempts to address some of these questions and thus, constitutes a gap-filling or gap-bridging in the ever increasing literature on gender studies in Nigeria.

1.3     Research Questions

To be able to find out the reason why women lag behind in political participation in Enugu state, the following questions have been put down as a guide.

  1. Has gender been a barrier to political participation in Enugu State
  2. Has cultural factors enforced the discrimination and marginalization against women over political participation in Enugu State?
  3. Has money politic hindered women participation to elective political offices in Enugu state from 1999 to 2016?

1.4     Objectives of the Study

The objectives of the study include:

  1. To ascertain gender as a barrier in political participation in Enugu State?
  2. To identify the cultural disadvantages associated with the women absence in participation in politics with their male counter parts.
  3. To identify if the income status of women which hinders them from participating in elective offices in Enugu state between 1999 to 2016.

1.5     Significance of the Study

This study is designed to provide useful information and solution to the problems surrounding women participation in politics in Enugu state. It will correct all the notion and misconception that people of Enugu state have in terms of women and politics. The result of the study will make citizens of Enugu to understand that political participation is a civil obligation where both male and female have equal right and not meant for males alone. 

This study will provide Nigerian women with the fundamental reliability and understanding of the women and political participation in Enugu state, thereby keeping them informed on the mechanisms suitable for the promotion of gender equality in political participation. Thus, this work will also be more beneficial to women, especially those who are aspiring for political positions. It will serve as a basis for building structures that will promote the aspirations of women on gender equality in political participation, this research work will also be beneficial to policy makers in general, thereby including more women into the decision making process.

Finally, this study will help to restore confidence in women, thereby building a sense of belonging in them to collaborate with their male counterpart in driving the economy of the state and also give reasons and hope to women for a better turn-up in political matters or issues.

1.6   Clarification of Key Concepts

The purpose of conceptual clarification is to clearly define terminologies to aid understanding for the purpose of this work. The following concepts will be defined for better understanding.

Gender: gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behavior, activities and attributes a particular society considers appropriate for men and women. 

Gender Inequality: gender inequality refers to disparity between individuals due to gender

Women; women can be seen as an adult female person

Women’s Right: these are inalienable, integral and indivisible parts of universal human rights

Women Empowerment: this refers to the provision and availability of opportunity and services which enables women to actively participate and contribute to political, economic, social and cultural development of the nation.

Discrimination against women: discrimination is the practice of treating somebody or a particular group less fairly than the others. Discrimination of women stands as the practice of treating women less fairly than men in the society.

Politics: politics is the seizure of state power, consolidation of state power and usage of state power. It is also the art of governing especially the governing of a political entity such as a nation and the administration and control of its internal and external affairs.

Alienation: the concept of alienation is defined as the state of being withdrawn or isolated. It could be denying of someone’s right.

Culture: culture is defined as people’s way of life which includes their way of dressing, dancing, cooking, eating, greeting and speaking.

Political participation: political participation is a voluntary act which encompasses wide range of political activities, including voting at election, contesting for political and party offices, attending political rallies, joining political parties and many more. 

Involvement; to engage in the interest of something.

1.7     Hypotheses

  1. Gender inequality a barrier to political participation in Enugu state 1999-2016?
  2. Cultural factors enforced discrimination and marginalization against women over political participation 1999-2016?
  3. Money politics hindered women participation to contest for political offices in Enugu state 1999-2016?
Click to: DOWNLOAD @ NGN5,000/USD20

 

Loading

THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN IZZI LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF EBONYI STATE

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to examine the Role of Women in Community Development in Izzi  Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Four research questions were formulated to guide the study. A total of six (6) communities in the study area were used for the study. 230 people were selected through simple random sampling techniques to complete the questionnaire. The instrument used for the study was a structured questionnaire designed by the researcher for the collection of data and the survey research design was adopted for the study. The questionnaire contained 20 items based on the research questions. The mean and frequencies were used for the method of data analysis. The data were analyzed and interpreted using mean scores. The results of the findings revealed that political and economic instability militate against effective role of women in community development because valued resources are not properly allocated to the appropriate quarters. Inconsistent policy formulation and programmes design as well as unpurposeful leadership militate against the Role of Women in Community Development. However, women are formidable productive force and a store of incredibly human resources which are required for community and national development. Therefore, women should not be discriminated and marginalized due to their potentialities in development sphere. Based on the findings, it was recommended that political and economic stability, review of government policies and programmes on the role of women, emancipation of women should be urgently and properly carried out completely, special child care/security allowance should be given to the women. Women should be heard, seen and involved in all ventures through their concerted efforts and all plans for the achievement of the objective of women development progress should be prudently designed and faithfully executed.

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

It is pertinent to note that women are at the heart of development in various nations, state, local governments and even communities as they control most of the non-monetary economy (subsistence agriculture, bearing children, domestic labour etc.) and play vital role in the monetary economy (trading, wage labour, employment etc.) (Yawa,1995). Everywhere in the world, women work both around the home and outside the home. The most topical issue in international developmental programme is women.

In support of this, Eze (2008) asserted that the instrumental role of women in community development is obvious, hence, cannot be over-emphasized. The woman as an individual is an agent of production of life itself. This inevitable role places her in the position of the life blood of the entire humanity. Woman is the first teacher, the sustained and maintainer of the home, the peace maker, and the symbol of beauty as well as the major character molders of the child. She is the mother to human race. As mothers and wives, women do avert considerable impact on the productivity: male workers. As workers in their own rights, they can be linked to the rejected stone in the Holy Bible which has definitely become the corner stone of the house. By their sheer psychological and intellectual make up, women do perform more than mere complementary roles in the production process  Jerminiwa, 1995).

To be candid, most of the contributions by women globally had not been recognized until recently when the United Nations declared:-the Decade for Women (1976-1985), making it mandatory on governments to focus on issue of women as an integral component national development.

To ensure the actualization of this noble objective, the United

Nations General Assembly in 1979 adopted the convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women. Consequently, subsequent conferences on women were held in Copenhagen, Demark 1980, Nariobi in Kenya 1985, and Benjing in China, 1995.

Notwithstanding, an international news magazines “Africa Today” reported in July, 1995 that the full implementation of all the strategies and recommendations of the various conferences on omen issues had still not been achieved and enthusiasm was waning. According to the magazine, the United Nations itself reported that only six out of the 184 ambassadors to UN are women and only four out of the 32 UN specialized agencies and prgoramme are headed by women.

But in Nigeria the 1995 constitutional conferences has only eight women out of a total of 369 delegates.  Sadly, much of women’s work remains invisible, unremunerated and unrecognized.  But women are now challenging the status quo to right women are working for an improvement in their socio-economic statues and for recognition in national development (Amah, 1995).

According to Eking (2008), women have come a long way.  The concern for “women in development or women’s progress and women is emancipation is anchored in the practiced that women as subordinate to men.  Consequently, Anikpo (2000) contented that various rights were denied women and their contributions to National Development were either stifled or ignored.  Deliberating on the matter, Ebo (1996) raised pertinent issues on the emancipation of both Nigerian women and men in national development without which women folk will slow down the pace of national advancement.

It is pertinent at this function to take a critical look on the role of women in community development, A case study of Izzi local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

A community is a group of people occupying a geographical space or area and is bound together by common culture, language value and aspirations. Succinctly, Ede (2001:55) sees the community as a group of people, made up of adult, children, social and non-social people living in a certain territory or geographical setting where they all share a mode of life but not all are conscious of its organization and purpose”. He further explained that there is a nonsocial part of the community such as little children and mentally deranged people who are not conscious of the way of life of the society and their rights and obligations. Culture in its simple forms to complex forms is being universally defined and understood as the totality of the ways of life of a people or a society. Onwueje Ogwu (1994) sees “culture as all material objects made by man ranging from stone implements to atomic energy and non-material things thought out and institutionalized by man ranging from values, norms to ideas like marriage, economy, drama dance and language”

Since women are part of the community, there is much need for. Apart from the physical attractions, women are indispensable at home not only in the domestic work they do, but also in taking care of the children. In support of this, Oyesakim (1982) asserted that women perform certain functions that make for development such as child bearing and economically, they are helping hands to man. In his opinion, Demise (1991) describes the roles and duties of women in the family as wives, mothers, and village/community politicians. He was of the opinion that women function in various capacities ranging from founders of nations/states. Also there are assumptions that women are the main custodians of social, cultural and values of a society at large and a community in particular.

However, this custodian role of women has been threatened by colonialism, modern technology and advent of Western Education where women were grossly under-privileged.

Obviously, Nigerian association with the British as its colonizers left an indelible mark on the socio-cultural attitudes and patterns of behaviour of its citizens. During the colonial era, women were relegated to the Kitchen, thus destroying the indigenous courage and capacities displayed by their great grandmothers in service to their communities (Dadirep 1995). Coming from a background where a woman’s place was in kitchen, the colonial masters and administrators thought it strange to find the African woman involved in substantial economic and political activities outside the home (kitchen). According to Dadirep (1995), the Victorian period in England in the 1gth country re-emphasized the act that the physiology of women naturally made them timid, feeble and unable to think because they had smaller brains than man.

Development means different things to different people Mabogunje (1980) identifies development to be economic growth and modernization.

Mabogunje (1991) identified the eight cardinal elements of sustainable development as they affect women as education, health, culture, politics, economy, agriculture, enhanced environment, quality and peaceful co-existence.

Perhaps, the field where women have excelled and where they have contributed immensely to national development as well as community is trading with reference to the transportation, exchange, and distribution of food stuff.

More so, the better life programme which was (launched in 1987 and the family support programme of the Abacha administration did a lot to enhance women’s participation in development process. However, despite their attendant circumstantial and congenital constraints, some specific achievements can be attributed to the programme in some parts of Nigeria such as:

  • Formation of co-operative societies and unions.
  • Many women are deeply involved in the following
  • Production of book soap
  • Production of honey
  • Founding of day care and primary schools
  • Organization of literacy classes
  • Preservation of perishable food items
  • Promotion EPI/ORT activities
  • Promotion of sanitation programmes.

It also undoubtedly clear that woman played a lot of vital roles in politics during the pre-colonial era. Nigerian women participated in politics and government through the institution of women chiefs, the authority of first born daughters and the age grades. They held various positions in their various ethnic groups. Currently, women are involved in all socio-cultural, economic, political and leadership aspects of the society.

Many of them were elected into various positions in their different communities, states and Federal level. To be precise, women are fully involved in developmental processes.

Conclusion: In spite of the imposed constraints or impediments on the Nigerian women at large and the study area in particular, there is over whelming evidence from what has been discussed in this introduction that women can be formidable productive forces which are needed for community and national development. They can dictate the pace and direction of the economy and society. Their sheer numerical strength is enough to jolt cynics. Their contribution

cannot be discounted in house-hold and national economics. The performance in national development efforts should be;

  • Ensure major policy interventions to bring women’s social status and economic chance at par with those of men.
  • Shift emphasis in regional development efforts to the provision of infrastructures and location of production ventures in marginalized areas.
  • Identification and elimination Of all appearances of discrimination based on sex.
  • Special child care security allowance should be put in place due to the tact that a properly brought up child is an assets to the society and not to the mother alone.

Converted efforts have been made by women themselves to be heard, seen and involved in all ventures, including political strides because the best advocates for women’s emancipation must be women themselves.

  • Cottage economic activities that are socially, acceptable and economically viable should be identified.
  • Credit facilities should make easily accessible to women.
  • All plans for the achievement of the objectives of women’s development progress should be prudently designed and faithfully, executed (Jeminiwa, 1995).

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The problem of this study is to identify the actual roles of women in community development in Ezzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State so that the non-recognition, discrimination, marginalization, oppression and suppression of women as well as other negative tendencies will be ended for the effective development of our society. It wilt also identify the causes and consequences of some of the factors that either militate against favour the role of women in community development in the study area.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The main objectives of this study are to critically examine the

-des of women in community development in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyl State, Specifically, this study sought to:

Determine the factors that affect the role of women in community development.

  • Ascertain the contribution and level of development in the study area through women
  • Examine the areas requiring more participation of women in the development of community in Izzi Local Government Area

Determine how women contribute in the provision of funds and other resources for developmental projects in the community in the study area.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The following questions are formulated which if adequately answered would identify the roles of women in community development in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

  1. What are the factors that affect the role of women in community development in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State?
  2. What are the contribution of women and the extent of the

evel of community development in Izzi Local Government Area

through the role of women?

3, What are the areas that require more participation of women for community development in your area?

  1. How do the women contribute in the provision of fund and other resources for the execution and implementation of community developmental projects?

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This research work is expected to serve as an adjunct to existing literature on the role of women in community development in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyl State in particular and Nigeria at large. This work can be regarded as a managerial, administrative, and policy guide.

The results of the findings and recommendations of this research work will among other things.

  1. Provide prudent and useful guide for government, organizations, communities, managers, project implementers, individual investors, industrial and developmental sectors as well as present and future researchers.
  2. In addition, the study seeks to promote participation of women

n development of the society to enable them handle their

duties and functions better.

Furthermore, the study service to improve the quality of materials and allocation of resources for community development to combine with the ones which women provide willingly for better performance in the study area and elsewhere.

In addition, the study hopes to promote cordial relationships Detween government project executors and implementers, women s well as the entire community.

Finally, it will serve as a catalyst forwards further research on community development and its effects on the people and the society.

1.6 SCOPE /DELIMITATION OF THE STUDY  

The scope of this research is limited to the role of women in community development in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

The delimitation of this research study to Izzi Local Government Area only is as a result of area where reliable data is available.

1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

This study concentrated on the role of women in community development in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State due to time frame and financial constraints. Another limiting factor is the necessary materials to be used which are very scare while the respondents may lose some questionnaires on which can make the sample small in relations to the entire population.

1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS

  1. Development: This means a widely participatory process of social changes in society intended to bring about social and material advancement (including greater equality freedom and other valued qualities) for the majority of people through gaining control over :eir environment.
  2. Role: This is the function or postion that somebody has.

Community: A community is a group of people occupying a geographical setting and bound together by common culture, language, value and aspiration.

Click to: DOWNLOAD @ NGN5,000/USD20

Loading

ASSESSMENT OF WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS

Chapter One

Introduction

1.1 Background to the Study

In the third world countries and Nigeria in Particular, women seem to be at the center of any development activity. Women sustain mold and nurture life in every home, community and human society in general. Their activities and actions play very important role in the development process of our great country Nigeria there can be no proper definition of national development without the contribution of women to that development. Despite the immeasurable success recorded by women in other fields, very little attention is giving to them in politics. In Nigeria democratic leadership pattern has been constitutionally enforced irrespective of the gender and position in question. Yet gender issues has been in serious debate and discussion especially as it affects women politically even though women constitute about half of the population of the Nigerian State by the 2006 census.

In man’s primitive days, there was a high primitive division of labor between man and woman, men are recognized as the stronger sex, were to hunt for food while women the weaker sex played the primary role of looking after the children at home.

Gender role differentiation in human society has prescribe subservient roles for women, the belief being that lack the capacity of executing certain task considered to be the exclusive preserve of men. This practice persisted via the ages. Men naturally assumed the sole responsibility of performing outdoor more for physically and mentally demanding task while the domestic chores were reserved for the women.”

Dickson (1999) opines that civilization and the global shift in the world’s economy from mere subsistence to the more sophisticated technology driven economy, have modified traditional gender roles subsequently, there is little left to hunt, and professionals do the warning but still grow the food. In spite of the transformation of the human society, that has been occasioned by the new advances in technology, and has placed the male gender on the part of professional careers, the female gender has been left to wallow in the sordidness, squalor and cocoon of traditional feminine roles. The potentials of women as partners in the productivity of the human society are yet to be widely acknowledged and duly recognized. The outcome of this condition is widespread discrimination.

The fact that some cultural believes discourages women from participating in active politics, this implies that for women to participate in active policies: they have to be socially and politically empowered. Social empowerment means guaranteeing women freedom from all oppressive and discriminatory social and cultural practices and the value system that relates women to the background. In Yobe State, such practices facilitated woefully in impending the participation of women in politics. The more women are economically buoyant the better their ability for effective participation in polities.

In a presentation on Africa women, men, feminisms and masculinities: towards liberating all Africans at 36 Brixton road, London sw9 7DA (Ama, 2013). Presented that in traditional African society, particularly the pre-colonial era, the relationship between women and men had a chequered history that characterized the existence of three types system. The matriarchal system: that is female superiority; egalitarianism in which men and women shared power through their various roles and the emergence of male superiority and the consolidation of men’s power and control which constitute the most prevalent system. Part of this consolidation processes has been the development of the division of labor on the basis of gender, various restrictions on women’s effective participation in polities and the growth of an elaborate ideology of female subordination and submissiveness reflected in the social norms ethnic, taboos and customs. Despite their limitations, women have been able to make valuable contributions to the development of their nations.

With the advent of colonialism in Africa: modernization was introduced, it was expected to improve the standard of living, with women, men and children all benefiting. However, the changes and new technologies led to greater opportunities for men with women finding themselves in less advantageous position, the inequality of opportunities and treatment has had an adverse effect on the effective participation of women and in politics in the region and widened  between men and women in various spheres of development.

Click to: DOWNLOAD @ NGN5,000/USD20

Loading