Ogun APC Women Leaders Demand Female Successor For Late Rep. Ijaya, Appeal To Governor Abiodun

OGUN – Concerning the continued underrepresentation of women in leadership positions, key Women leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State have made a passionate appeal to Governor Dapo Abiodun, urging him to support a female candidate to fill the vacant position of House of Representatives seat for Ikenne, Sagamu, and Remo North Federal Constituency. The vacancy arose following the passing of Hon. (Chief) Oriyomi Adewunmi Onanuga, popularly known as ‘Ijaya,’ who made history as the first woman to represent the constituency in the Green Chamber before her untimely demise.

In a strongly worded appeal, the APC women leaders emphasized that Governor Abiodun’s administration has a record of promoting gender inclusion in governance. They reminded him of his 2022 Executive Order, which affirmed the globally recognized 35% affirmative action for women in politics and governance.

They believe that upholding this principle by endorsing a female replacement for Ijaya would solidify his commitment to gender equality and further position Ogun State as a model for women’s political participation in Nigeria.

The signatories of the appeal include Honorable Mrs. Yetunde Adesanya (Southwest Women Leader), Mrs. Aminat Adigun Motunrayo (State Women Leader), Mrs. Toyin Jekami Suzan (Ex-Officio 2, State Executive), Mrs. Arigbabuwo Kuburat (Ogun East Senatorial Women Leader), Mrs. Adeyiga Fausat Abiola (Local Government Women Leader, Ikenne), Mrs. Rukayat Shonubi (Local Government Women Leader, Sagamu), and Mrs. Asetoye Serifat Morenike (Local Government Women Leader, Remo North). These women leaders stressed that while Ogun APC has made some strides in empowering women, more needs to be done to ensure sustained representation in strategic political offices.

Recommended News:

• OGD Empowerment: Senator Gbenga Daniel Partners With National Productivity Centre, Empowers Youths And Women On Aquaculture Training In Ogun East
• Senate Spokesperson Slams Natasha Akpoti For Kissing Husband At N’Assembly, Calls It ‘Sickening’
• NUJ @ 70: Ogun NUJ Chairman, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju Salutes Journalists’ Resilience, Reaffirms Commitment To Press Freedom

According to them, allowing a female politician to succeed Ijaya would not only preserve the legacy of the late lawmaker but also inspire more women to actively participate in politics. They noted that the marginalization of women in decision-making roles remains a critical issue in Nigeria’s political landscape, and Ogun State should take the lead in setting an example for others to follow.

The women leaders also highlighted the contributions of Ijaya during her time in office, describing her as a formidable force who championed the interests of her constituents, especially in areas of youth and women empowerment. They maintained that replacing her with another competent female leader would ensure the continuity of her developmental initiatives and the inclusion of women’s voices in governance.

The group further appealed to the APC leadership at the state and national levels to support their request, arguing that their demand aligns with the party’s progressive values. They warned that neglecting women’s representation in such a crucial election could discourage female participation in politics, a move that contradicts the party’s vision for inclusivity.

Concluding their appeal, the APC women leaders expressed confidence in Governor Abiodun’s leadership and urged him to take decisive action in ensuring a woman gets the party’s ticket for the forthcoming election. “We are waiting patiently for a positive response from Your Excellency soon,” they stated, reaffirming their trust in his commitment to fairness, equity, and gender balance in governance.