Kwara Women in Politics: Fostering Continuous Inclusivity
By Esther Mosunmola Ajibade
Women deserve a robust circle of inclusion and influence in every sphere of society. As Eleanor Roosevelt aptly said, “A woman is like a tea bag; you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.”
In democratic systems, women and men should enjoy equal rights, free from discrimination, with an empowered voice in decision-making processes to hold leaders accountable.
The active political participation of women is vital for a thriving democracy. Their inclusion is not only a matter of justice but also a key factor in creating effective governance.
Research has shown that increasing women’s presence in policymaking leads to the advancement of crucial legislation on pressing issues such as healthcare, education, childcare, infrastructure, and the fight against violence toward women.
Furthermore, it serves as an inspiration for young girls, encouraging them to pursue higher education and career aspirations.
A significant step in this direction is the Kwara State Political Office Gender Composition Bill of 2021, which mandates a minimum of 35% representation of women in the State Executive Council. This legislative initiative marks a turning point for gender representation in governance.
On December 7, 2021, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq celebrated his administration’s commitment to inclusivity by appointing women to 56.25% of cabinet positions, over 48.15% of permanent secretary roles, and numerous women in key governmental positions since he took office in 2019.
Despite representing nearly half of Nigeria’s population, women remain underrepresented in politics and governance, holding only 6.7% of decision-making positions.
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According to reports from BellaNaija, in the 2023 elections, 1,553 women contested for various offices, with only 72 emerging victorious at federal and state levels.
Among the elected women, 7 became deputy governors, 18 were elected to the National Assembly, comprising 3 senators and 15 representatives, with others securing seats in various State Houses of Assembly.
In Kwara State, where there are 16 local government areas, women have emerged as key stakeholders, occupying at least 10 vice chairperson positions and 15 councilor seats.
Remarkably, five determined women were elected to the Kwara State House of Assembly during the 10th legislative session. This marks a gradual shift from the long-standing male dominance in politics.
The 2023 House of Assembly elections introduced influential figures such as Rukayat Shittu from Owode/Onire constituency, the youngest female lawmaker, Arinola Lawal from Ilorin East constituency, Medinat AbdulRaheem from Lanwa/Ejidongari constituency, Aishat Babatunde-Alanamu from Ilorin North-West constituency, and Mariam Aladi from Ilorin South constituency.
To solidify the continuous inclusivity of women in Kwara State governance, it is essential to empower women and amplify their voices. Women from all walks of life should be encouraged to strive for greatness and demonstrate their commitment to their various endeavors.
To sustain a legacy of women’s voices in decision-making across the globe, we must champion women’s participation in prominent sectors—not as a form of domination but as an essential aspect of societal progress.
Empower women, empower the nation. Women’s roles extend far beyond traditional spheres; they encompass political engagement and leadership. By advocating for inclusivity and enhancing women’s political involvement, we can build a more equitable society and pave the way for a better world for all.
Esther Mosunmola Ajibade, a PRNigeria Fellow can be reached at [email protected]
