FIDA ONDO STATE ADVOCATES FOR ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE SEATS FOR WOMEN IN ONGOING CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEW
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Ondo State Branch, led by her Chairperson, Bolanle Olafunmiloye, has called for robust support for the bill proposing additional seats for women in Nigeria’s legislative houses. This advocacy is part of ongoing efforts ahead of the public hearing on the constitutional amendment scheduled to hold in Akure on Friday, 18th July 2025, by the House of Representatives.
During a meeting with the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, and other key stakeholders, Mrs. Olafunmiloye emphasized the urgency and importance of the bill, which seeks to reserve specific seats for women in the Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly.
She noted that the passage of this bill is essential to correcting the gross underrepresentation of women in Nigeria’s political landscape and would open the doors for more women to participate meaningfully in governance and decision-making at all levels.
“This legislation is not just about numbers; it’s about ensuring that women’s voices are heard and represented where critical decisions about our lives are made. It will pave the way for more gender-responsive policies in areas such as education, healthcare, and employment — issues that are central to women and families,” she stated.
Fidan Olafunmiloye further highlighted that institutional support for women in politics would help counteract divisive narratives, including the stereotype that “women do not support women.” According to her, increased representation would instead promote collaboration, mentorship, and healthy competition among women leaders.
FIDA Nigeria ,Ondo State Branch called on all women’s groups, civil society organizations, and gender advocates to mobilize and attend the upcoming public hearing en masse to show overwhelming support for the proposed constitutional amendment.
“This is a defining moment. Let us rise collectively to ensure women take their rightful place in Nigeria’s political space,” she concluded.
Other FIDA Ondo members in attendance were the former Vice Chairperson of the branch, Alhaja Kudirat Gbadamosi and Fidan Martha Adejoh.
DS Msonter-Shagba
_Publicity Secretary_
FIDA Nigeria, Ondo State Branch.
16th July 2025
