APC Convention: Women’s Group Rallies Support For Mary Idele’s Return
Abuja, Nigeria — A coalition of women drawn from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones has declared strong support for the return of the APC National Leader, Dr. Mary Alile Idele, ahead of the party’s national convention scheduled to hold in two weeks.
The endorsement was made during an interactive session held at the Party National Secretariat in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Joyce Ibrahim, a director representing women in the diaspora, stated that their decision to rally behind Dr. Idele was based on her track record in advancing women’s development and contributing to national progress.
According to Ibrahim, the group has gone a step further by purchasing the nomination form to support Dr. Idele’s return, emphasizing that they do not want her to “stand alone” in the race.
“We have seen the work she has been doing, especially for women in the APC and across Nigeria, and we believe she deserves to continue,” she said.
She explained that the coalition consists of six women representing the six geopolitical zones, with additional members ensuring nationwide inclusiveness.
Responding to questions from journalists, Ibrahim acknowledged that leadership often attracts criticism but stressed that competence, purpose, and vision should remain the key criteria for continuity.
“As long as you are alive, not everyone will like you. But when you have purpose, direction, and competence, it reflects in your work,” she noted.
Highlighting Dr. Idele’s achievements, Ibrahim pointed to her advocacy for the reserve seat bill for women and initiatives that provide scholarships for young Nigerians to study abroad. She also credited her with redefining women’s participation in politics.
“Politics is no longer about sharing wrappers and rice. Women are now more articulate and actively engaged in policy-making,” she added.
On voter participation, particularly among women, Ibrahim disclosed that the group has commenced sensitization programmes aimed at encouraging greater involvement in the electoral process.
“Voting is our right. We are mobilizing women to come out and participate because their voices matter in governance and policy decisions,” she said.
She also expressed support for initiatives by organizations such as FIDA and UN Women in promoting women’s political participation.
Addressing concerns about zoning, Ibrahim expressed confidence that the position would remain in the South-South region.
“The structure remains the same. We are a united party, and what stands will continue to stand. There is no plan for any shift,” she asserted.
Also speaking at the event, High Chief Hon. Ambassador Billy Umar Garba, a co-founder and aspiring member of the House of Representatives from Kogi State, reaffirmed the group’s endorsement of Dr. Idele.
Garba, a diaspora representative based in Los Angeles, California, described their support as a deliberate and strategic decision based on Dr. Idele’s leadership capacity and policy direction.
“Our coming together is not accidental. We have seen in her a woman with the leadership capacity and clear policy direction that aligns with our vision,” she said.
She further explained that the delegation, comprising women from the diaspora representing the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), gathered to demonstrate solidarity and unified support.
“As women, we are moving beyond supporting for what we can gain. We are ready to contribute meaningfully because we have what it takes to lead,” she added.
Garba noted that members of the group traveled from abroad to join their counterparts in Nigeria, underscoring their commitment to strengthening women’s participation in politics.
She concluded by appreciating stakeholders and attendees for their support while reaffirming the group’s commitment to the APC and its broader vision.
