An inquiry into the loud absence of the female progenitors: Implications for the contemporary Nigerian socio-political space

The exclusion of female progenitors from historical and religious genealogies has significant implications for gender dynamics within socio-political structures. This study critically examined the absence of women in biblical genealogies—focusing on Ezra 8:1–14—and its enduring effects on contemporary Nigerian socio-political realities. While feminist theology and gender studies have challenged patriarchal readings of scripture, there is limited exploration of how these omissions reinforce gender exclusion in governance and leadership. Employing feminist hermeneutics, critical discourse analysis, and gender theory, the study explored how structural gender bias in religious history contributes to the marginalisation of Nigerian women in political and religious spheres. It interrogated theological justifications for male dominance and their role in shaping policies and norms. The study found that biblical genealogies have historically reinforced male authority, limiting women’s representation. However, feminist reinterpretations offer transformative potential for promoting gender inclusivity in Nigerian governance, religious leadership, and broader societal structures.