Veteran Nollywood actress and outspoken advocate for women’s rights, Kate Henshaw, has sparked renewed national conversation on gender equality by alleging that Nigeria’s legal system disproportionately favors men over women.
In a recent interview, Henshaw expressed concern over what she described as systemic discrimination entrenched in the country’s laws, particularly in matters relating to inheritance, divorce, and child custody.
“Nigerian laws are skewed to favor men. Women are often left to fight twice as hard for the same rights men take for granted,” Henshaw stated. “We need comprehensive legal reform that ensures women are not treated as second-class citizens.”
Her remarks come amid growing calls from civil society organizations and legal experts for a constitutional review that addresses gender disparity. Despite Nigeria’s ratification of international treaties such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), critics argue that implementation remains weak.
Activists point to sections of the Nigerian Constitution and customary laws that continue to uphold patriarchal norms, leaving women vulnerable in areas such as property rights and legal guardianship.
Legal analyst Ifeoma Okeke commented, “While some progress has been made, the legal system still harbors outdated statutes that disadvantage women. Henshaw’s voice adds weight to an urgent issue.”
Henshaw has long been a vocal supporter of gender equality, using her platform to challenge cultural and institutional practices that limit women’s opportunities. Her latest comments are expected to galvanize further advocacy and possibly influence legislative debate in the National Assembly.
As the conversation gains momentum, many are watching to see whether lawmakers will take decisive steps toward legal reforms that reflect the principles of equity and justice for all Nigerians.
source: naijanews.com
