By Okoi Obono-Obla
The Anatomy of Female Power
It is remarkable that a woman is the Chief Justice of Nigeria, another serves as the President of the Court of Appeal, and most Chief Judges in many States—including my own—are women. The President of the Nigerian Bar Association is also a woman.
My wife, herself a lawyer, advised me to vote for all women contesting the NBA elections, and I adhere strictly to her admonition.
Indeed, this is the anatomy of female power. Women are not only rising to the forefront of leadership but have always been the power lurking behind the scenes in governorates, presidencies, kingdoms, empires, and chiefdoms.
Today, their influence is visible, undeniable, and transformative. The rise of women in law and governance is a testament to their resilience, wisdom, and strength.
Women’s presence in Nigeria’s judiciary is profound. At least seven States—Kano, Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Nasarawa, Niger, and Zamfara—are led by female Chief Judges. There are currently 22 female Justices serving on the Court of Appeal out of a total of 84, under the leadership of its female President, Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem. Four women serve as Justices of the Supreme Court out of 13, and 26 female judges sit on the Federal High Court bench out of 74.
While no single registry explicitly counts all female judges, approximately 21% of the judges on the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory are women. Data from the National Judicial Council indicates that women make up roughly (33%) of State Court judges and (36%) of Federal judges in Nigeria.
Therefore, it goes without saying that the legal profession is where the strength of female power manifests most profoundly. Historically and traditionally, the legal profession frowns upon misogynistic tendencies in all ramifications. Court etiquette demands that every judge be addressed with equal respect, regardless of gender—a principle that underscores the profession’s enduring commitment to equality and justice.
Conclusion: Women are not just powerful; they are shaping the future of justice, leadership, and society itself.
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