In a renewed call for inclusive governance, a prominent advocate Adedibu Oyelakin has urged Seyi Makinde to match his widely acknowledged pro-women rhetoric with measurable political action by increasing women’s participation in elective positions across Oyo State.
The Dibu’s appeal comes amid growing conversations around gender equity in leadership, with the advocate stressing that the governor has a unique opportunity to solidify his legacy as a champion of women’s advancement not just through appointments, but through deliberate support for women in electoral politics.
According to him, while the Makinde administration has recorded notable strides in governance, expanding women’s representation would stand as a defining legacy in the annals of the state’s democratic development. “This is the time to move beyond verbal commitments and translate advocacy into structural inclusion,” Oyelakin emphasized.
He centered his proposal by recommending that at least two to three elective positions per senatorial district in Oyo State be strategically reserved or supported for qualified female candidates in forthcoming elections. “Having 2-3 elective positions per the 3 Senatorial Districts in Oyo State would not only deepen democracy but also ensure that governance reflects the diversity and realities of the population”, he hinted.
Dibu’s call aligns with ongoing national discourse around the proposed reserved seats for women in the National Assembly of Nigeria, which seeks to correct long-standing gender imbalances in political representation. The advocate urged the state government to domesticate and reflect similar principles at the subnational level by prioritizing credible, competent, and community-driven women aspirants.
Furthermore, he drew attention to global efforts led by organizations such as UNICEF in promoting women’s development and inclusion. Nigeria, including Oyo State, remains a key beneficiary of such initiatives, underscoring the importance of aligning local governance with international best practices on gender equality.
As political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of future elections, stakeholders believe that decisive steps by the Makinde administration could reshape the political landscape and inspire a new generation of female leaders. The advocate concluded by urging political parties, community leaders, and voters to rally behind capable women, emphasizing that inclusive leadership is not just a moral imperative but a catalyst for sustainable development.
