Women Political Participation Growing Under Okpebholo Administration — Abdallah

By Rosemary Okoduwa

The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has applauded Governor Monday Okpebholo for what it described as his unwavering commitment to women inclusion, gender equity, and participatory governance in Edo State.

In a statement personally signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, the Ministry expressed satisfaction with the growing participation of women in politics and governance, especially within the All Progressives Congress (APC), ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Hon. Abdallah particularly congratulated three female aspirants contesting for seats in the Edo State House of Assembly under the APC platform. They include Hon. Maria Edeko for Esan North East Constituency II, Hon. Dr. Maureen Ekhoragbon-Ero for Ovia North East Constituency 1, and Hon. Jennifer Osarumwense Iyamu for Egor Constituency.

According to the Commissioner, the emergence of the female aspirants reflects the enabling political atmosphere created by Governor Okpebholo and signals a progressive move toward inclusive governance and balanced representation in the State’s political landscape.

She described Governor Okpebholo as a visionary and progressive leader whose administration has continued to demonstrate sincere commitment to empowering women through deliberate policies and inclusive governance initiatives.

The statement further commended the Governor for sustaining the implementation of the 35 percent affirmative action policy, noting that the initiative has opened more opportunities for women to participate actively in leadership, governance, and decision-making processes across different sectors in Edo State.

Hon. Abdallah also described Governor Okpebholo as a committed “HeForShe” advocate who has consistently backed his support for women with action through the appointment of women into strategic positions in government and the encouragement of greater female participation in governance.

She noted that the Governor’s leadership style has continued to inspire confidence, hope, and renewed political interest among women and young girls across the State.

While stressing the importance of women empowerment to sustainable development, democratic growth, and social stability, the Commissioner reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with the Okpebholo administration and other relevant stakeholders to promote policies and programmes that advance the welfare, rights, and aspirations of women in line with the administration’s SHINE Agenda.

Hon. Abdallah added that empowering women and giving them greater representation in governance remains essential to building a more inclusive, prosperous, and equitable Edo State.