NJOMACS

This position paper examines the portrayal of female candidates by Nigerian newspapers during the 2023 general elections, arguing that persistent gender bias in media coverage undermines the democratic process and perpetuates societal inequalities. Despite progress in female political participation, media representation continues to reinforce stereotypes that hinder women's advancement in the political sphere. Analysis of newspaper content reveals significant disparities in both quantity and quality of coverage between male and female candidates. Female politicians received less overall coverage and were more likely to be portrayed in ways emphasizing appearance, family status, or gender rather than policy positions or qualifications. The language used often employed gendered stereotypes and double standards, questioning women's competence, emotionality, or likeability more intensely than their male counterparts. Furthermore, the underrepresentation of female voices in political news coverage limited their ability to communicate platforms to the electorate, effectively silencing women's perspectives in the political process. This systematic exclusion from the media narrative denies voters access to a diverse range of viewpoints and leadership styles. The paper concludes that addressing these issues requires a multi faceted approach. Media organizations must prioritize gender-sensitive reporting, focusing on policy positions and qualifications rather than superficial attributes. Increasing women's representation in newsrooms, particularly in leadership positions, can bring diverse perspectives to political coverage. Ultimately, recognizing and addressing these biases is crucial for creating a more inclusive political landscape that truly represents the diversity of Nigerian society.