Inheritance in Nigeria is complex. With culture being fundamental to Nigerian society, present at the grassroots and in national discourse and institutions, Nigeria’s hampering of gender empowerment perhaps derives from a rejection of western ideals, as well as being deep rooted in a harmonising society and so needing to remain unchanged. Recently Nigeria booted out the gender and equalities opportunity bill presented by Senator Abiodun Olujimi, leading others to question why a bill advocating basic human rights for women has no place in an up and coming global powerhouse. At present, like most countries today, Nigeria is absorbed by gender inequality; whilst the latter is a concept of heated controversy globally and prominent in Nigeria’s constitutional and social framework, this article aims to provide insight into male inheritance and gender mainstreaming against the backdrop of a complex paradox: customs versus universal legislation.

Read more … 1607 Gender Equality in Nigeria; Inheritance

The current African narrative on gender has been largely distilled from European and American literature on the issue. According to Oyewumi, such western concepts are not well suited to analyze the African household.  She gives the example of the Oyo-Yorubas; instead of gender, seniority is an organizing principle for Yoruba society. Bibi Bakare Yusuf asserts that western concepts have influenced African cultures and the other way around and that from a historical perspective this should be taken on board. But rather than generalizing, the analysis would benefit from a greater eye for practicality. For instance, how do contemporary Yoruba households run according to gender and seniority.

Read more … Literature Review: Yorubas don’t do gender