The social functions of female voice in politics and national development in selected political speeches of Patience Jonathan

Abstract

Over the years, political and socio-economic participation in African society have been asymmetrical, and full of gender inequality. Women’s participation in politics has been very low in Africa especially Nigeria due to the patriarchal structure of the society. Women and their voices are often made to appear irrelevant in issues that affect their lives and society; they are sometimes regimented to ‘kitchen’ and’ bedroom’ responsibilities alone. However, the influence of women’s voice in conflict resolution, socio-economic status of different homes and the society at large cannot be underpinned. This could be seen in the role of Aba women’s riot of 1929. Their engagement in civil society, politics and social movements help to shape their society, and lobby the government towards the development of their areas. Several efforts and agitation both from women quarters and UN Right of Women to ensure that female voices are heard in politics, and policy making and decision taking of the society have been made, yet not much has been achieved in the political structure of Nigeria. This study investigates the social roles of female voice towards national development in selected political speeches of voices in politics encourage social mobilization and collective action towards political success, and resolving conflicts and crisis that bedevil the national development. Again, Women’s voice in politics helps to create social dynamism in politics and serves as agent of change.

Keywords: Social Functions, Female Voice, Political Speech, National Development