In Ibadan, the state capital, attention is already shifting to several legislative contests, with the race for the Ibadan North East/South East Federal Constituency seat expected to attract considerable interest.
Among those positioning themselves for the contest is Hon. Adebola Shakirat Ibilola Adetunji, a businesswoman and political figure who is seeking the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adetunji is expected to challenge the incumbent representative of the constituency, Hon. Abass Adigun, popularly known as Agboworin, if both aspirants secure the tickets of their respective political parties.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting with women in her constituency, Adetunji said women should play a more prominent role in Oyo State politics and governance.
She argued that women should no longer be confined to supporting roles but should actively seek elective and appointive positions.
“Active participation of women in Oyo State in the scheme of things is in top gear. We have decided to rise and throw down our gauntlet,” she said.
According to her, women in the state were prepared to become more involved in political decision-making and governance.
“Where the men have failed, we will take up the responsibility. We will no longer be in the background and allow those men run the show anyhow,” she added.
Adetunji said women were targeting a significant share of elective positions in the 2023 elections.
“We have met and have decided to come out in full force. We will make sure we occupy at least 35-40 percent of elective positions in 2023,” she said.
She also declared that producing a female deputy governor would form part of the women’s political agenda within the APC in Oyo State.
“Come 2023, part of the women’s agenda in the politics of Oyo State is that a woman must occupy the position of Deputy Governor in Oyo State,” she said.
Adetunji added that the objective was to increase women’s participation in the political process and move them from the background to more visible leadership positions.
Political Consultations
Adetunji has reportedly begun consultations with party stakeholders and political leaders across her constituency as she works towards securing the APC ticket.
She has also established a campaign structure known as ASHAD 2023 and has been engaging various groups as part of her preparations for the election.
The contest, if it materialises, could pit her against Agboworin, who is seeking another term on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adetunji would be relying on her political network, community contacts and experience in organising women-focused activities as she seeks to build support for her ambition.
She has previously shown interest in representing the constituency, having sought the position in 2015.
Beyond politics, Adetunji is involved in business and is associated with Essential World Link Kiddies in Ibadan, a company involved in the sale of children’s toys and related products. She also has interests in the freight business.
Her supporters have continued to promote her as a candidate capable of attracting more women into active participation in politics.
However, the immediate challenge remains securing the APC nomination and building sufficient support across the constituency ahead of the general election.
For Agboworin, the contest would be an opportunity to defend his position and seek the backing of his party and constituents for another term.
With the election season approaching, the political calculations within both camps are expected to intensify.
Whether Adetunji can secure the APC ticket and eventually unseat the incumbent at the general election remains a question that will be answered by the outcome of the party primaries and, ultimately, the electorate.
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