SOCIO RELIGIOUS EVALUATION OF GENDER DISCRIMINATIONS IN IKOT ABASI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

Aniediabasi Okon Ekpatt

Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, University of Uyo

Email: okonekpatt@gmail.com

Abstract

Gender discrimination in lkot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, is a pervasive issue deeply rooted in patriarchal cultural practices, norms, religious influences, and historical colonial disruptions. This systemic inequality manifests across socio-economic, political, and health domains, limiting the agency and development of lkot Abasi women. Despite Nigerias constitutional guarantees against discrimination and commitments to international frameworks like the Convention on Eradicating of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDEW), enforcement remain weak due to inadequate domestic implementation, lack of awareness, and persistent socio-cultural barriers. Politically, Ikot Abasi women face significant obstacles, including illiteracy and fragmented political agenda, which hinder their participation in decision-making processes. Economically, women have transitioned from restricted roles to becoming major contributors to agriculture. Culturally, traditional beliefs often confine women to domestic duties, reinforcing subservience and limiting their engagement in public life. The study adopted historical and survey research methods, and while data were collected from primary and secondary sources, interviews and focus group discussion were also used. The findings revealed that culturally, women are viewed as inferior to men and a male child is generally celebrated and allotted higher portions of properties. Some of these harmful cultural practices remain a serious problem and threat to women. It is true that women have great potentials that will impact positively on the society when properly harnessed. It is therefore important to create a level playing ground for both male and female, as the society will benefit very much if all hands are on deck to contribute to its welfare. The study concluded that all forms of inhuman cultural practices and discrimination perpetuated against women should be challenged if the society wants to protect the status of women for their contribution to the development in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area.

Keywords:  Gender Mainstreaming, Gender Discrimination, Patriarchy, Ikot Abasi Local   Government Area (LGA)