Women in Nasarawa North Demand Female Representation in Upcoming Senatorial Bye-Election
By Roseline Okafor, Nasarawa.
A coalition of women in Nasarawa North Senatorial District has called on the government and political stakeholders to support a female candidate for the upcoming senatorial bye-election, arguing that women deserve greater representation at all levels of leadership.
The demand was made on Saturday during a press briefing held at The Legacy Hotel, Nasarawa Eggon. The group, led by Mary Irimiya, said it was mobilizing support for a woman to contest and win the seat, citing competence and the significant role women play as voters.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Irimiya said the bye-election presents a fitting opportunity to break the gender gap in the district’s representation.
“The time has come for Nasarawa North to align with the growing call for inclusive governance,” she said. “We believe this bye-election fits a woman, and the candidate we are rallying behind is Angela Bako Ayas, based on her competence, capacity, and track record of service to the people.”
Irimiya emphasized that the group was not seeking sympathy but recognition of women’s contribution to the political process. She noted that women make up a major share of the electorate in every election cycle and should be given the chance to lead, not just to vote.
Other women who spoke at the briefing echoed the call, stating that increased female representation would bring diverse perspectives to policymaking, particularly on issues affecting families, education, and health in the district.
They urged political parties, traditional leaders, and government officials to create a level playing field and avoid sidelining qualified women during party primaries and candidate selection.
The Nasarawa North Senatorial District bye-election was scheduled following a vacancy in the seat. Party primaries and campaign activities are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.
The women’s coalition said it would continue grassroots mobilization across the district to build support for Angela Bako Ayas ahead of the polls.
