Position of Women in Gov Seyi Makinde’s  Administration: Issues and Concerns | By Ibrahim Kola Adebiyi

Position of Women in Gov Seyi Makinde’s  Administration: Issues and Concerns | By Ibrahim Kola Adebiyi.

The neglect of women by the Seyi Makinde  administration has become a source of growing concern for many people. The citizens of the State are utterly worried by his indifference and the nonchalant dispositions of the key players in his administration. In spite of the numerous calls from critical stakeholders to the Governor to prioritize women’s welfare and well-being, it is regrettable that little or no action is taken to address this salient issue.

Among the major indications of the decline in attention to women issues is the apparent disappearance of women representation in the governance of the State. The Makinde administration is having a few women in positions of power, with a trifling number of them serving as commissioners, special advisers and special assistants. Those women, who serve in the administration, are neither heard of and nor their positive impacts. The strides of women, in Makinde administration, have been deliberately dwarfed. This is a major concern, as it suggests that women’s voices and opinions are not being heard or taken into account in the decision-making processes of the State Government.

On 8th March, which marks the International Women’s Day, the Governor failed to celebrate women in the State. To say this was a huge disappointment to the womenfolk, who expected the Governor to use the august occasion to highlight the struggles and achievements of women in Oyo State, is an understatement. Neither the Governor nor his wife addressed Oyo State women on this day. This has been the norm since Gov. Seyi Makinde assumed duties as the Chief Executive Officer- like the welfare of women does not matter in the State. It is crystal clear that the Governor is oblivious of the vital roles of women in the development of any society. This is so disheartening.

Also, the dormancy of the Governor’s wife, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde, in the Makinde administration has raised serious concerns about the lack of attention to women issues and the welfare of Oyo Children. However, her sudden emergence during the campaign season shows the hypocrisy in the Governor’s style of governance. She has been silent and out of reach before the campaigns. Sadly, she makes no significant difference, generally. Instead of using her position to advocate the welfare and empowerment of women in the State, the First Lady only seems to be interested and preoccupied with political campaigns and events of her husband. This speaks volumes of her condescendingness to the plights of women and children, and it sends a wrong signal to the people of Oyo State about the government’s lack of commitment to their welfare and empowerment of the less privileged.

In contrast, the former First Lady, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, has been seen championing the cause of women in the State. She has been at the forefront of initiatives, aimed at empowering women and girl child. While her efforts have not gone unnoticed, many women in the State have commended her incredible contributions to the welfare of women and children. Certainly, since the inception of this administration, Oyo kids have noticed the deterioration in quality of how Children’s Day is celebrated every 27th day of May.

It is imperative to note that women in Oyo State are going through harrowing experience, due lack of care and attention from the Governor and his wife. This is confirmed by the allegation made against His Excellency by the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA, Oyo State Chapter). During the Governor’s Town-hall meeting at Fresh FM on the 29th of January, a representative of FIDA accused him of shunning the welfare of the less privileged and those in the vulnerable group, which include women and children. On many occasions, the Organisation reached out to the Governor for a possible collaboration, so as to address this issue with the urgency it needs. Sadly, the Governor granted none of their invitations. This is a sharp departure from the previous administrations in Oyo State.

Women are facing genres challenges, including gender-based violence, discrimination and inequality. These issues require urgent attention and action from the Governor. Worthy of note is the administration’s neglect of the less privileged, where women and children happen to be marginalised and remain victims of violence.
Despite the fact that these issues are critical to the welfare, mental health and empowerment of the women and girls; it is obvious that the Makinde administration has not prioritised them or made significant progress in these areas.

In conclusion, we implore Governor Seyi Makinde to take a cue from his predecessors and prioritise the welfare and well-being of women in the State. Women should not be left to suffer in silence, while the Governor turns a blind eye to their plights. The Governor should put in place policies and initiatives that are aimed at empowering women/girls and promote gender equality.

Ibrahim Kola Adebiyi,
Akinyele LG, Ibadan.