The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Sokoto State chapter, has identified political interference, gender discrimination and cultural barriers as some of the major challenges hindering the recruitment, career progression and leadership advancement of women in the Sokoto State Judiciary.

The issues were highlighted during a retreat organised for female judicial officers and other workers in Sokoto, where the organisation presented findings from a study on the experiences of female judicial officers in the state.

According to the paper, which was presented by the state team lead, Mr. Fikih Obaro, women in the judiciary continue to face structural, institutional, cultural and religious obstacles that limit equitable recruitment, retention and promotion, despite progress recorded in increasing women’s participation in the justice sector.

The presentation revealed that political interference, favouritism and personal connections often influence recruitment and promotion processes, with participants arguing that appointments are not always based on merit, qualifications or competence. It noted that such practices undermine confidence in the fairness of judicial career advancement.

FIDA also said women who are married to Sokoto indigenes but are not indigenes by birth face discrimination during recruitment and promotion exercises, as indigene status is often prioritised over merit. Some participants recounted losing employment opportunities to junior colleagues who were considered indigenes.

The report further highlighted workplace discrimination and gender-based harassment, saying some female judicial officers had been subjected to derogatory comments and sexualised assumptions that affected their mental health, productivity and professional confidence.

It also identified inadequate welfare and logistical support for female judicial officers posted outside urban centres, citing the absence of official vehicles, accommodation, security personnel and transport support.

The organisation said women also face unequal access to conferences, seminars, workshops and housing schemes, while the lack of crèches, breastfeeding spaces, adequate office facilities and family-friendly workplace policies continues to affect the productivity of pregnant women and nursing mothers.

According to the findings, the absence of structured mentorship programmes, coupled with cultural and religious interpretations that restrict women’s participation in the Sharia judiciary, has contributed to the underrepresentation of women in senior leadership and decision-making positions.

The report noted that many female judicial officers currently rely on informal mentoring relationships for career guidance.

FIDA further observed that although formal grievance mechanisms exist within the judiciary, many women are reluctant to report unfair treatment due to fear of victimisation.

It also called for stronger gender-responsive policies, improved financial autonomy for the judiciary and timely release of budgetary allocations to support training, institutional development and programmes aimed at promoting women’s leadership and improving access to justice. (Daily Trust)

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