By Yahaya Idris
The All Progressives Congress, APC, attained a significant electoral success in the Edo State Gubernatorial Elections, with Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa emerging as the victorious candidates. The leadership and organizational expertise of Dr. Mrs. Mary Alile Idele, APC National Woman Leader, were key factors in this achievement, as her tireless efforts and strategic planning facilitated effective grassroots engagement and mobilization especially among women and folks
Dr. Mary Alile’s leadership went beyond campaigning, empowering women statewide and ensuring their voices were heard, then translating that support into votes. Her impactful market-to-market campaign, conducted alongside Amb. Casher Osaretin Idahosa, wife of the Deputy Governor-Elect, engaged traders, women, and grassroots members at various markets, establishing trust and loyalty among voters, particularly women, who turned out in large numbers for APC candidates.
Recognizing the significance of female participation in politics, Dr. Mary Alile strategically appointed eighteen Special Assistants, each representing a LGA in Edo State, to spearhead community outreach efforts. These key appointments targeted influential women leaders across the state, ensuring the effective dissemination of the APC’s development and good governance agenda. Through organized rallies, town hall meetings, door-to-door campaigns, and grassroots initiatives, these women leaders effectively highlighted the APC’s achievements and the vision of Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa.
Dr. Mary Alile worked tirelessly to unify APC women in Edo State, bridging leadership-grassroots gaps. Her leadership unified stakeholders, ensuring an inclusive campaign focused on women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
Embodying the legacy of trailblazing women leaders, Dr. Mary Alile Idele demonstrates unwavering fortitude, echoing Margaret Thatcher’s sentiment, “Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren’t.” Her transformative leadership empowered women throughout Edo State to assert their influence in politics. Dr. Idele’s courage parallels Malala Yousafzai’s declaration, “I raise up my voice—not so I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard.” By advocating for women’s interests, Dr. Idele ensured their concerns remained pivotal to the APC’s successful strategy.
Dr. Mary Alile’s detribalized attitude and passion for mentoring young female politicians have established her as a role model for the next generation. She champions inclusivity, working extensively with women from diverse backgrounds. Her guidance has significantly impacted numerous women across Nigeria, inspiring bold political endeavors and shaping the nation’s future.
As a champion of women’s empowerment, Dr. Mary Alile’s leadership has been instrumental in empowering young women to pursue political careers. Her recognition of Nigeria’s youth as the key to its future has fostered an environment where young women can thrive, overcome challenges, and redefine boundaries. Her profound influence has sparked unprecedented political engagement among young women, securing a legacy that will continue to inspire and empower future generations.
