The low level of political participation of women is becoming alarming and disturbing. This hampers women from contributing their quota to the development of Nigeria. Empirical observations have shown that women in position of responsibilities are noted to be hardworking and firm in their decision. The aim of the study, therefore, was to find out the specific factors responsible for the low level of political participation of women, using both quantitative and qualitative data which included the administering of 300 questionnaires equally to men and women. For the purpose of explicit analysis, the paper is divided into five parts. Part one consists of introduction; part two focuses on the factors that mitigate and militate against women in politics; part three dwells on women and political participation in Nigeria; part four comprises data analysis and presentation; and finally part five concludes the study. The major restricting factors for women in Nigerian politics revealed were sedentary in nature – the predominantly domestic female role compelling and confining women to the home. Women are seen to belong to the home, be incapable of making sound decisions and it is unbecoming of women to expose themselves in public for political activities such as campaign rallies. Other issues such as the money required to be involved in politics, and violence and thuggery – while important – were considered by women to be secondary determining factors to their public sphere participation. In order to ensure active participation of women in politics, civil society organisations, governments as well as political parties should increase the level of awareness of women by organising seminars/workshops not only in the cities but also in the villages, with attendance open to both women and men. In addition, governments at all levels should encourage girl child education. It can be made compulsory that all female children of school age should go to school free of charge. This will give them equal opportunity with their male counterparts.