CULTURAL NORMS AND GENDER PARTICIPATION IN DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES: A SOCIO-ANTHROPOLOGICAL STUDY OF YORUBA COMMUNITIES IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

Abstract

This study probes into the influence of cultural norms in determining gender participation in decision-making among Yoruba communities of Southwest Nigeria showing that while Patriarchal authority remains entrenched, there are already tendencies towards inclusivity. Under a socio-anthropological framework, the study employed qualitative methodology using in-depth interview, key informant interview and participant observation to gather data within six Yoruba-speaking states. A purposive sample of 60 participants ranging from chiefs, to elders, women leaders and youth representatives and religious leaders was involved. The transcription, translation and thematic analysis were done manually as well as through NVivo software, triangulated with secondary sources like oral histories and data from archives. The findings show decision-making to be overwhelmingly patriarchal, excluding women from formal structures of authority and into symbolic roles like the Iyalode. These exclusions are also given religious, cultural backing, and validated through prescriptions which rationalise male predominance in homes and panchayats. And yet, women are active in markets, religious sects, and groups of like-minded citizens, while educated younger women more and more push against the constraints. Emerging trends spurred by education, migration and globalization indicate that Yoruba cultural practices are moving toward more gender-inclusive participation, Oguntoye said. The study suggests policy direction by enforcing gender inclusion in governance, revitalizing female leadership institutions, utilization of more education and leadership training for women, development enhanced platforms through NGOs and associations as wells ample religious interpretation that could reduce exclusion. Utilizing ethnographic evidence and gender theory as heuristic guide, the paper provides new socio-anthropological understanding of how the tripartite culture, gender and governance intermingle to inform African cultural practices.