Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, former First Lady of Ondo State, has said her decision to align with the Labour Party Nigeria is driven by the party’s commitment to representation and the growing inclusion of women in leadership.
In a Facebook post titled “When Women Lead,” Anyanwu-Akeredolu described female leadership within the party as a rare but significant development in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“One of the reasons I align with the Labour Party Nigeria is simple—representation,” she wrote, adding that the party currently reflects “something powerful: women in leadership.”
Her comments come as the party is led by Nenadi Usman, a development seen by observers as a notable shift in a political system where women have historically had limited access to top leadership positions.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu noted that despite decades of contributions by Nigerian women, leadership opportunities have remained restricted, often confined to roles such as “Woman Leader,” which she described as largely symbolic and lacking real influence.
“For decades, Nigerian women have worked, sacrificed, and contributed—but leadership spaces remain limited. This must change,” she stated.
She argued that increased female participation in leadership would result in more inclusive governance, with stronger focus on community development and social welfare.
“When women lead, communities are nurtured, priorities shift, and development becomes inclusive. This is not just politics—it is a statement about the Nigeria we must build,” she added.
The former First Lady, who is aspiring to represent Imo East Senatorial District in 2027, also called for broader public engagement on the issue of gender inclusion in politics.
“Do you believe more women should lead in Nigeria? Let’s talk!” she wrote.
Her remarks are coming amid growing conversations around gender representation in Nigeria’s political space ahead of the 2027 general elections.
