Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
Hon. Dr. Princess Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji, Member of the House of Representatives representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency, has reaffirmed her support for the Special Seats Bill for Women, describing it as a crucial step toward strengthening gender representation and deepening Nigeria’s democratic values.
Earlier in the week, the lawmaker appended her signature in support of the proposed legislation, joining a growing list of parliamentarians advocating for increased female participation in legislative bodies across the country.
The Special Seats Bill for Women was first introduced in the 9th National Assembly by Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, with strong support from the then Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila. The Bill has now been reintroduced in the 10th Assembly by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, alongside other lawmakers committed to expanding political inclusion.
The proposed legislation seeks to create additional seats for women in the Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly. Importantly, it does not restrict women to these special seats; instead, it opens more political space by allowing women to contest existing elective positions while also guaranteeing a minimum level of representation.
Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji emphasized that the Bill addresses a longstanding imbalance in Nigeria’s political system. She noted that despite women’s central roles in economic growth, community development, and family stability, their political representation remains disproportionately low compared to global democratic standards.
“Nigeria cannot continue with low female representation,” she stated. “Women drive our economy, our homes, and our communities. Their voices must be reflected in policymaking, budgeting, and national development.”
She added that the passage of the Bill would not only improve gender balance but also enhance the quality of legislation, particularly in areas such as healthcare, education, welfare, and economic empowerment.
Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji called on fellow lawmakers, political leaders, and citizens to support the initiative, describing a more gender-inclusive National Assembly as key to building “a stronger and more equitable Nigeria.”
With debates on the Bill expected to intensify in the coming weeks, her endorsement adds renewed momentum to one of the most significant gender-inclusion efforts in recent legislative history.
