THE OONI OF IFE & THE COUNCIL OF YORUBA TRADITIONAL RULERS SUPPORT RESERVED SEATS FOR WOMEN BILL ADVOCACY

Ile-Ife, Osun State — November 16, 2025

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, together with the Council of Yoruba Traditional Rulers, has declared full support for the proposed Reserved Seats for Women Bill, assuring Nigerian women of their commitment to championing the cause across the Southwest and beyond.

The assurance was given during a strategic meeting held in Ile-Ife between the Ooni and Southwest legislators, convened as part of the nationwide advocacy for the Special Seats Bill led by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS).

In his remarks, the Ooni emphasized that improved women’s representation in governance is essential for national stability, inclusive development, and democratic growth. He noted that Yoruba traditional institutions have historically upheld the importance of women in leadership and societal decision-making, and therefore must play a role in advancing modern legislative reforms.
The Ooni and the council pledged to sensitize political leaders, community influencers, and stakeholders within their domains to support the bill, stressing that women deserve increased opportunities to contribute meaningfully to political processes.

Southwest lawmakers in attendance lauded the commitment of the traditional rulers, describing their support as a major step toward building broader national acceptance for the bill.
The meeting ended with a renewed call for unity, collaboration, and sustained advocacy to ensure that the Special Seats Bill becomes a reality—ushering in a new era of strengthened women’s political participation in Nigeria.