Politics
Ogun deputy governor backs constitutional amendment for women’s inclusion
The Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has declared her full support for a constitutional amendment aimed at increasing women’s representation in governance, describing it as a shared national responsibility.
She made the declaration while delivering a keynote address at a town hall meeting on “Advancing Women’s Inclusion and Representation in Leadership and Political Processes in Nigeria,” organised by the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
The deputy governor explained that the meeting was convened to raise public awareness and support for the proposed constitutional amendment, which seeks to create 74 additional legislative seats in the National Assembly and 108 in state assemblies, exclusively reserved for women.
Describing the proposal as a bold and necessary step, Salako-Oyedele said it would address historical imbalances and provide structured entry points for women into legislative spaces where they have long been underrepresented.
“This is just a beginning, not the final destination,” she said, urging participants to spread the message across all platforms including media, markets, schools, and social spaces. “Everyone must understand what the bill is and why it matters.”
She stressed that the amendment should not be viewed as a “handout” but a “hand up,” calling for alliances across political parties, genders, and generations to build a truly inclusive political system.
Also speaking at the event, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, lamented the rejection of all gender-related bills during the 9th National Assembly. She called for greater unity among women, encouraging them to support one another and speak with one voice.
President of NILOWV, Hon. Irene Ikyegh, praised the efforts of the Ogun State chapter and the commissioner, stating that the bill, if passed, would increase women’s presence in decision-making roles, build confidence, and promote integrity.
The Olowu of Owu, Oba Prof. Saka Matemilola, represented by the Orunto of Owu Kingdom, Chief Biodun Lasile, emphasised the societal need for more women in leadership. He urged women to pursue education, citing literacy as a major barrier to participation.
Chief Mrs. Iyabo Apampa, in her goodwill message, commended NILOWV’s tireless advocacy, stressing the need for women in power to lift others. She identified culture and financial constraints as key challenges limiting women’s political advancement.
Civil society representatives, Mr. Adeshina Adesegun and Mrs. Olatayo Adeifa, pledged continued collaboration with women’s groups to ensure the bill’s passage, expressing hope for increased female representation by 2027.
Mrs. Elizabeth Egbeyemi, president of NILOWV’s Ogun State chapter, described the event as a collective call to action, stressing that inclusive governance is a necessity, not just a goal.