Ever since Patricia Etteh emerged the Speaker of the House of Representatives in 2007, there has been dangling question on when the House of Reps will get another female speaker.
The answer for the above question may soon materialise as one of those who have decided dare the odd by contesting for the coveted seat is Princess Miriam Odinaka Onuoha, the only female aspirant in the race. Election to any position is usually fraught with uncertainty and anybody can emerge the winner. Just like other male aspirants, Princess stands equal chance for the seat.
Her entry into the race may have popped question on who is this woman with nine lives. Princess Miriam Odinaka Onuoha is an experienced politician and a passionate advocate for youth empowerment whose bid to become Nigeria’s second female speaker deserves support from all quarters.
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For too long, women have been underrepresented in Nigeria’s political landscape, with many talented and capable female leaders struggling to break through the patriarchal barriers that have historically blocked their path.
However, the tide is slowly turning, and the increasing visibility and success of female Nigerians such as Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Amina J. Mohammed is a clear sign that women can and should be given more opportunities to lead.
Princess Onuoha is one such leader, a highly qualified and experienced politician who has served her constituency with distinction as the current federal lawmaker representing Okigwe North/ Onuimo/Isiala Mbano constituency of Imo State.
At the recent House of Reps election for the federal constituency, Onuoha defeated her two closest male rivals in a landslide victory to win re-election for a third term.
She polled 44, 687 votes to beat Onuoha Chikwem Chijioke of the Labour Party who got 12,847 votes and Onwubuariri Obinna Kingsley of the Peoples Democratic Party who came third with 6,642, amongst others.
Prior to her election to the House in 2015, Onuoha served as a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Bayelsa State on International Development Cooperation amongst other previous political engagements.
She is a tireless advocate for the rights of women and girls, and has worked tirelessly to promote gender equality and empowerment across Nigeria. Her dedication and passion for these issues are some of the reasons that make her the ideal candidate to become Nigeria’s second female speaker.
But it’s not just her gender that makes her a worthy candidate. Princess Miriam Odinakachi Onuoha has an impressive track record of leadership and achievement, having served as the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Disabilities and Special Needs in the current House of Reps.
It’s important to note that women are often more attuned to the needs and concerns of marginalized communities, including women, children, and the elderly. As such, having a woman as speaker would bring a fresh perspective to the House, and ensure that these important issues are given the attention and resources they deserve.
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Another important consideration is the role that women leaders can play in inspiring and empowering future generations. When young girls see women in positions of power and influence, they are more likely to believe that they too can achieve their dreams and make a difference in society.
Not only is Princess Onuoha a source of inspiration for young women, she has equally been a strong voice for youth empowerment and education, recognizing the importance of investing in Nigeria’s future generations.
Her track record of advocating for policies that uplift and empower young people makes her a strong candidate for the position of Nigeria’s second female speaker.
As the youth population in Nigeria continues to grow, it is imperative that young people are given a voice in government. Onuoha has shown commitment to this cause throughout her political career, championing youth-related issues such as education, job creation, and entrepreneurship.
