Nigerian women continue to face significant obstacles in political participation due to deep-rooted cultural, structural and systemic barriers, according to Olatorera Majekodunmi-Oniru, a former senatorial candidate for Ogun Central.
Patriarchal Systems and Economic Hurdles
In a recent interview conducted on November 10, 2025, Majekodunmi-Oniru identified several interlocking factors that constrain women's political involvement across Nigeria, Africa and globally. Patriarchal traditions, economic inequality and limited access to political networks rank among the most significant challenges.
The politician, who contested the Ogun Central Senatorial seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress in 2023, explained that Nigerian politics has transformed into a competitive arena for the wealthiest 0.1% rather than a genuine leadership journey. The system demands substantial financial resources and willingness to accept personal security risks that many women, as mothers, wives and sisters, understandably avoid.
Political Party Exclusion and Electoral Manipulation
Majekodunmi-Oniru highlighted the hypocrisy within political parties that publicly support gender inclusion while maintaining male-dominated decision-making structures. She shared revealing examples from the 2023 elections, noting that no APC female contestant won general elections despite significant voter popularity.
The former candidate described her own experience where primary election results were pre-written despite her being the most popular and preferred candidate in Ogun Central Senatorial District. She emphasized that political parties must eliminate all forms of rigging, particularly against merited, educated candidates.
Financial Barriers and Security Concerns
The prohibitive cost of Nigerian politics presents another major obstacle for women aspirants. Nomination forms costing up to N100 million, combined with campaign logistics and mobilization expenses, create insurmountable financial barriers for many capable women.
Political violence and thuggery during elections further discourage female participation. Majekodunmi-Oniru noted that many women naturally recoil from needless bloodshed as nurturers and protectors of life, though this should not prevent them from pursuing leadership roles.
Pathway to Genuine Inclusion
Rather than focusing solely on numerical representation, Majekodunmi-Oniru advocates for merit-based leadership selection that would naturally improve gender balance. She emphasized that true national progress depends on leadership quality, ethics and impact rather than simply filling gender quotas.
The current statistics reflect the severity of the situation: women constitute only about 4% of the National Assembly and 0% of state governorships. The politician believes that prioritizing excellence and national interest over favoritism and tokenism will organically produce more capable female leaders.
Looking toward the 2027 elections, Majekodunmi-Oniru remains committed to transformational leadership and national progress. She plans to continue mobilizing citizens toward ethical governance, accountable leadership and an economy that works for all Nigerians, regardless of gender.
