Nigerian Men's Outcry: 'Rather Be Ruled by a Goat' Than Accept Female President

A significant number of Nigerian men on the social media platform X have voiced strong objections to the possibility of a female president, igniting a heated debate about gender and leadership in the country. The controversy erupted after PDP Republic, a verified Twitter account dedicated to promoting the People's Democratic Party, shared a photo of Senator Natasha Akpoti with the caption: "Behold Senator Natasha Akpoti, the woman who could be the first female President of Nigeria."

Social Media Backlash Against Female Leadership

The post triggered a wave of negative reactions from male users, many of whom expressed deep-seated resistance to the idea of a woman ruling over them. One user bluntly stated, "E better make Tinubu rule us forever than make woman become president," while another tweeted, "I would rather vote osama binladen than allow a woman rule over me." These comments highlight a broader sentiment of gender-based opposition to female political leadership.

Extreme Comparisons and Dismissive Remarks

Some responses took a more extreme turn, with one user declaring, "I rather be ruled by a goat than for me to be ruled by a woman. This isn't about gender shit .....women are more vile with power than men." Others made dismissive jokes, such as "Omo cos why person wey dey bend down piss go dey rule us," referencing biological differences to undermine women's capabilities. Additional comments included:

"She will not even get up to 50 votes in her home town. This is not BB9ja or Miss Nigeria. Let's be serious please."
"Walai I will open vote Tinubu if she is the only candidate competing with me . Women in place of power ? . Just lol."
"E better make i relocate go mexico now than for this to happen."
"Make Tinubu do 2 more rounds."

Personal Anecdotes and Activist Response

One user shared a personal story, writing, "There was a time they voted a woman class rep in my department. It was only me that objected. They had to make her assistant sha and make a guy the class rep. Then na Presidency I go come vote for woman? El o el." This anecdote underscores how early experiences can shape political attitudes. In response to the backlash, female activist Rinu Oduala criticized the men's stance, tweeting, "Nigerian men will prefer for a goat to rule them than a woman. That's why their lives are miserable the way it is."

Broader Implications for Gender Equality

This incident sheds light on the persistent gender discrimination in Nigerian politics, where women face significant barriers to leadership roles. The comments reflect a cultural resistance that could hinder progress toward gender equality and inclusive governance. As debates continue, it raises questions about how societal attitudes might impact future electoral dynamics and the representation of women in high office.