Despite ongoing advocacy for gender inclusion, Nigerian politics continues to reflect a deeply unequal landscape, with women largely underrepresented in decision-making roles. Out of 25 recently appointed commissioners, only two are women — a statistic that tells its own story.
Currently, Osun has no female among three senators, nine House of Representatives members and 26 House of Assembly members. Only two of 25 commissioners are women.
Mrs. Favour Itunu Oladosu, the founder of the Favour Itunu Gift Foundation, is one of the voices pushing for change. As a humanitarian worker for over five years, her work spans across grassroots involvement in Osun State. But when it comes to women in politics, she believes there are multiple layers of resistance — and it’s not just from the system.
“Women are doing enough to lead,” she said, “but the political parties are not supporting us. The structure doesn’t favour us. Society still believes that only men are capable of leadership.” Oladosu said while featuring on Insightful Moment with Jare Tiamiyu.
According to Oladosu, married women often face additional barriers. Some are discouraged by their spouses who hold negative stereotypes about women in politics, including the belief that female politicians are morally loose. This perception, she says, forces many women to step back from public service even when they have the passion and competence to serve.
Another key concern she raised is the lack of solidarity among women already in the political space.
“Sometimes, women are the ones holding other women back,” she said. “You find women who are in leadership, but rather than focus on their responsibilities, they become distracted — often because of personal relationships with political figures.”
This internal rivalry, coupled with external resistance, makes it harder for upcoming women to rise.
A Call for Orientation and Encouragement
Oladosu emphasized the need for mass orientation at the community level, urging women to encourage one another and become politically active. According to her, awareness and support at the grassroots are crucial for long-term participation.
While stressing the need for structural change, most especially in political parties, Oladosu echoed her support for the bill seeking special seats for women at the National Assembly, describing it as an expected game-changer.
“Political parties must begin to deliberately appoint and support women. The imbalance won’t fix itself — it requires political will. The bill seeking for special seats at the National Assembly for women is the expected game-changer.”
When asked how women are expected to communicate their needs to the government, her answer was simple: “By speaking out — by using our voice.”
Beyond Politics: A Life of Service
Outside of political advocacy, Mrs. Oladosu has been actively involved in humanitarian work since 2020. In her third year as a university student, she launched community-focused projects including support for widows, victims of abuse, and young girls in need. So far, she has worked with over 300 widows in Osun State and currently runs the Pad Up A Girl project — a campaign that supports girls with menstrual hygiene products.
She shared the case of a young schoolgirl who was sexually abused by her aunt for seven years. Despite reporting the matter and seeking medical intervention, justice was not served — largely due to the girl’s mother refusing to escalate the case.
“These are the kinds of stories we deal with,” she said. “And the system is too weak to protect them.”
Looking Forward
Mrs. Oladosu currently runs free summer classes for students at Baptist Grammar School, Ejigbo, every Monday to Friday, beginning August 4. She is calling for volunteers to join her in reaching more children and communities.
While her foundation receives support from some residents of Ejigbo, she admits that sustaining the work hasn’t been easy. An international supporter once assisted her but withdrew after scammers began impersonating her online.
Still, she remains committed.
“When you’re doing this kind of work, don’t expect anything. Just show up.”
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