By Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu

Something encouraging is emerging in Ondo’s political landscape, and I welcome it. Anyone familiar with my political antecedents knows that my primary constituency has always been women. So it comes as no surprise that I strongly endorse this initiative regardless of my present political affiliation.

My long-standing slogan says it all: “Reduce Fila to Increase Gele.” Fila represents men; gele represents women—you do the math. This is about equity, fairness, and correcting a long-standing imbalance.

I stand in solidarity with the State Woman Leader, Princess Toyin Iji-Ayeola, for this bold call to action directed at the party leadership and the Governor. For far too long, women have appealed, sung, clapped, danced, and lobbied—yet our efforts have not translated into the level of representation we deserve.

I recall leading Ondo women to Abuja, standing under the scorching sun, advocating for legislative action to address women’s underrepresentation. Despite those efforts—even with the involvement of the wives of former President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo—the outcome was disappointing. Representation in the 10th National Assembly declined rather than improved.

That experience reinforced a critical lesson for me: there must be a more effective pathway.

I believe that pathway lies at the state level—through strategic alignment between key actors: the First Lady, the State Woman Leader, the Party Chairman, and the Governor. When these actors are united within the same political framework, meaningful progress becomes not just possible, but achievable.

This is why I see the Ondo initiative as more than a state-level development—it is a replicable model. I strongly recommend this template for adoption across states nationwide. From experience, it is practical and can be implemented without undue strain.

I urge Ondo women to stand firmly with their State Woman Leader on this journey. If sustained, the ripple effect will transcend party lines and advance the cause of women across Nigeria.

Let’s keep the momentum—and ensure this time, it leads to measurable outcomes.

–Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu was the First Lady of Ondo State (2017-2023)
Email: akeredolubetty@gmail.com