TechHerNG, a collective of women dedicated to bridging technology access gaps and amplifying women’s voices in society, has outlined their expectations for the next governor of Enugu State, emphasizing inclusive representation and robust security infrastructure.
The group articulated its demands in the ‘Good Governance Banners,’ which were presented to candidates of various political parties participating in the state’s gubernatorial race.
During a press conference on Wednesday, the group, comprising women and youths in the state, expressed the significance of women’s active involvement in shaping the nation’s future. Achenyo Ochijenu, the Project Lead, highlighted the importance of the Signpost Project as a platform for political officeholders and candidates to comprehend the challenges women encounter in exercising their citizenship rights. The initiative aims to communicate the expectations of women for the next governor of the state.
Ochijenu clarified that TechHerNG is a non-political community focused on learning, support, and collaboration for women. Among their expectations from the upcoming governorship, the group emphasized the need for comprehensive security infrastructure and job security.
With the Independent National Electoral Commission scheduling the governorship and House of Assembly elections for March 11, Ochijenu stressed the importance of sensitizing the group to promote widespread political participation. She affirmed that the goal is to demand accountability and excellence from elected leaders, underscoring the non-partisan nature of the group.
“We went to the markets, we went to universities, we listened to civil society, we listened to youth speak about the Enugu of their dreams. We did all these to build and invest in the elections, for our young women and youth to get involved in elections but beyond that, continue to demand accountability and excellence from their leaders,” she said.
According to Ochijenu, part of the demands from residents of the state for the incoming government include protection of women and girls from sexual and gender-based violence, provision of drinkable water, constant payment of salary, provision of security and quality education, access to opportunities and jobs.
Residents of the state decried the incessant strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, disruptions of business and economy caused by insecurity and the sit-at-home order, inflation, and many other challenges faced.
Ochijenu said the engagement was aimed to educate the residents who are qualified to vote on the need to be more proactive and engage in civic activities.
“Several respondents said they recognised the importance of participating in civic processes via engagement with the Signpost Project and pledged the continued exercise of their franchise,” Ochijenu said.
