A former governor and prominent political leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has restated his full support for the Special Seats Bill for Women, describing it as a necessary step toward greater inclusion, equity, and sustainable national development.
In a post on his social media handle, the senator who represents Bayelsa West at the Senate, said the bill, which seeks to create reserved seats for women at the local government, state, and national levels, is long overdue and essential for strengthening women’s participation in governance.
He stressed that no society can achieve lasting progress without deliberately empowering its women, noting that giving women more political space is not merely symbolic but strategically beneficial for nation-building.
HSD highlighted his long-standing track record of promoting women in leadership throughout his political career. As governor, he adopted a 30% affirmative action policy, placing women in key positions across all levels of government. He recalled supporting Dr. Stella Dorgu in 1998 as a governorship candidate under the Alliance for Democracy, and later backing her to become the first female Member of the House of Representatives from his constituency.
“I know the benefits; I saw the benefits, and I strongly support the bill,” he said.
He cited his continued commitment to supporting competent and loyal women, noting that his nominee, Hon. Alice Tangi, currently serves as the elected Chairperson of his local council, the first and only female chairperson in his senatorial district and among the few in Bayelsa State.
Describing women as “our mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, and friends,” HSD emphasized that they are equal citizens who must be given every opportunity to excel and contribute meaningfully to society. He urged Nigerians to look beyond outdated perceptions and support women’s political advancement.
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HSD also noted that Nigeria remains far behind other African countries in women’s representation, insisting that the country must correct this imbalance.
While encouraging healthy debate on the modalities of the bill, including numbers and implementation, he made clear that he would vote in favour of the Special Seats Bill.
“All women must be encouraged and supported to be the very best they can be, including being enabled to participate actively in the affairs of their society,” he concluded.