The National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Mary Alile-Idele, has urged the National Assembly to revisit the gender-focused constitutional amendment bills—particularly the one proposing reserved legislative seats for women.

Speaking at a women-focused policy dialogue in Abuja, Dr. Alile lamented the rejection of these bills by the 9th Assembly in 2022, calling it a missed opportunity to strengthen democratic representation.

“Nigerian women have demonstrated resilience, patriotism, and leadership. The laws of our nation must reflect their contributions,” she said.

She emphasized that the push for reserved seats isn’t about favouritism or charity, but about fairness and strategic national development. “Across Africa and the world, temporary special measures—such as quotas—have helped bridge gender gaps in politics,” she added.

While commending President Bola Tinubu’s administration for appointing competent women to key positions, she insisted that true inclusion must go beyond appointments and be embedded in the electoral system.

“It is undemocratic to have single-digit female representation in the National Assembly when women make up nearly half of Nigeria’s population,” she said.

Dr. Alile also acknowledged some of the concerns raised by lawmakers during the 2022 debate, such as the cost of expanding the legislature, but dismissed them as weak arguments against equity. “Inclusive governance is not an expense—it is an investment in national stability,” she stated.

She concluded by calling on political parties, civil society, traditional leaders, and the media to support renewed efforts toward gender-sensitive legislation.

“This is about the soul of our democracy and the future of our daughters,” she declared.

Her statement has drawn praise from women’s rights advocates and political analysts, who described it as bold, timely, and necessary for deepening democratic inclusion.