In a bid to increase female participation in the electoral process, women in Rivers State have been encouraged to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and exercise their right to vote. The call was made by Dr. Nancy Chidi Nwankwo, a leader of Rivers Women Unite for SIM (RWUS), during the group’s monthly prayer meeting in Port Harcourt. Nwankwo emphasized the importance of PVCs in enabling citizens to participate in decisions on who governs them.
RWUS has been actively sensitizing and mentoring women across various local government areas on the importance of political participation and the role of PVCs. Nwankwo urged women who have not obtained their PVCs to do so and advised those who already have them to keep the cards safe and use them responsibly during elections. She also cautioned women against exchanging their votes for temporary material benefits, emphasizing the need to consider the longer-term implications of their choices at the ballot box.
In addition to promoting voter education, RWUS has also been encouraging women to reject electoral violence and promote peaceful participation during elections. Nwankwo urged women to encourage their children, families, and communities to participate peacefully in the electoral process. She emphasized that women have been encouraged to vote according to their conscience rather than along partisan lines.
The monthly prayer meeting, which had the theme ‘Look Up to God’, was also addressed by Dr. Queen Karibi-Botoye, who urged the women to remain prayerful and thankful, particularly in the face of personal and societal challenges. She encouraged participants to replace anxiety with prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving.
Another leader of the organization, Tekena Wokoma, emphasized the need for women to complement government efforts by developing their own capacities and seeking opportunities to improve their livelihoods. She encouraged the women to explore available support for businesses, farming, and other economic activities rather than relying solely on government assistance.
The organization’s focus on skills acquisition and economic empowerment was also highlighted by Dr. Ayara Margaret, coordinator for Abua/Odual. She said that the organization has placed emphasis on skills acquisition and economic empowerment as part of its programmes for women, enabling them to support their families, establish businesses, and contribute to community development.
The Rivers Women Unite for SIM reiterated that women’s empowerment, peaceful civic participation, and voter education remain important components of its programmes in Rivers State. The organization’s efforts aim to promote greater participation of women in the electoral process and contribute to the overall development of the state.
Key points
- Women in Rivers State urged to obtain PVCs and participate in elections
- RWUS promotes voter education and peaceful participation in elections
- Organization emphasizes skills acquisition and economic empowerment for women
