OPINION: WOMEN, OUR TIME IS NOW! WHY BASA’S SENATORIAL CANDIDACY MATTERS IN OYO SOUTH
By Amb. Segun Akinlabi
Women constitute a significant force in Nigeria’s democratic process. From grassroots mobilisation to community engagement and election-day participation, women contribute immensely to political activities. Yet, a critical question remains: how effectively are their contributions reflected in the decision-making structures where policies are formulated, public resources are allocated, and the future of society is determined?
This question makes the conversation about women’s political representation particularly important as Oyo South Senatorial District approaches the 2027 general elections.
For too long, the participation of women in politics has often been discussed more in terms of their ability to mobilise voters, support political movements, and campaign for candidates than in terms of their opportunities to occupy elective offices and directly influence public policy. While mobilisation remains an important aspect of democratic participation, representation must go beyond helping others secure political power. Women must also have opportunities to exercise that power responsibly.
It is against this background that the senatorial candidacy of Hon. Bolanle Aminat Sarumi-Aliyu (BASA), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Oyo South Senatorial District, brings renewed attention to the place of women in the political future of the district.
BASA’s candidacy presents an opportunity to examine what meaningful representation should look like and how women can participate more actively in shaping the political direction of their communities. Her candidacy also places an important responsibility on political stakeholders to ensure that conversations about inclusion are reflected in the actual opportunities available to women.
Beyond Mobilisation: Women Must Be Part of the Decision-Making Process
Women’s participation in politics should not begin and end with election campaigns. Their voices deserve to be heard in conversations about education, healthcare, economic opportunities, security, infrastructure, social welfare, and other issues that directly affect families and communities.
The significance of representation lies not merely in who occupies an office but also in how that office is used to address public concerns, promote accountability, and advance the interests of constituents.
For women who have spent years contributing to political organisation and grassroots mobilisation, the call for greater representation is therefore not a demand for symbolic recognition. It is a call for meaningful participation in the processes that shape public policy and determine development priorities.
BASA’s aspiration to represent Oyo South in the Senate provides an opportunity for constituents to engage with these questions, examine her priorities, and consider the role women can play in legislative leadership.
The Responsibility of Women in the 2027 Political Process
As preparations for the 2027 elections continue, women across Oyo South have an important role to play in strengthening democratic participation. This responsibility extends beyond supporting individual candidates. It includes encouraging peaceful political engagement, demanding issue-based campaigns, evaluating candidates’ proposals, and holding elected representatives accountable for their commitments.
Women can contribute by organising community conversations, engaging eligible voters, discussing policy priorities, and encouraging participation in the electoral process. Door-to-door engagement, when conducted respectfully and peacefully, can also create opportunities for candidates and their supporters to understand the concerns of residents.
Every community has its own needs, and effective political engagement requires listening as much as speaking. The concerns of market women, artisans, farmers, traders, professionals, young people, and vulnerable households deserve attention in the wider conversation about representation and development.
For BASA and her supporters, the challenge is to translate the message of women’s inclusion into practical engagement with constituents and clearly articulated legislative priorities.
A Political Opportunity That Must Carry Responsibility
The recognition of women in political leadership is important, but it must be accompanied by a commitment to accountability, transparency, and effective representation. Political parties also have a responsibility to create opportunities for qualified women to participate meaningfully in leadership and governance.
The PDP’s decision to field BASA as its senatorial candidate in Oyo South places her candidacy within this wider conversation about political inclusion. It also highlights the importance of assessing candidates on their ideas, experience, public commitments, and capacity to engage the people they seek to represent.
Women’s representation should not be treated as a favour granted by political leaders. It should be understood as an important element of an inclusive democratic system in which citizens have opportunities to contribute to governance and public affairs.
At the same time, every candidate seeking public office must demonstrate an understanding of the needs of the constituency and a willingness to be accountable to the people. Gender representation and effective leadership should complement each other in the pursuit of responsive governance.
The Road to 2027: Participation, Unity and Accountability
The 2027 general elections offer voters in Oyo South an opportunity to examine the choices before them and make informed decisions about the district’s representation at the National Assembly.
For women who identify with BASA’s candidacy, this period presents an opportunity to participate actively in peaceful campaigns, communicate their expectations, engage other citizens, and demand clear commitments on issues affecting their communities.
However, meaningful political participation must remain inclusive. Men and women alike have a stake in building a democratic culture that values competence, fairness, accountability, and equal opportunities. The goal should be a political environment in which women can contribute fully, not only as campaigners and supporters but also as candidates, legislators, policymakers, and community leaders.
Ultimately, the conversation surrounding BASA’s candidacy should extend beyond the excitement of the campaign season. It should encourage a deeper reflection on how Oyo South can strengthen women’s participation, improve representation, and ensure that the voices of constituents receive serious attention in the Senate.
Conclusion: Women’s Voices Must Count
The call, “Women, our time is now!” is a reminder that political participation should create opportunities for meaningful representation. Women who contribute to democratic processes deserve to have their perspectives heard, their concerns considered, and their leadership assessed on its merits.
As Hon. Bolanle Aminat Sarumi-Aliyu (BASA) pursues the PDP senatorial ticket in Oyo South for the 2027 general elections, the central questions remain clear: What does she intend to achieve for the district? How will she address the concerns of its diverse communities? And what mechanisms will ensure accountability to the people?
These are questions that deserve thoughtful public discussion.
The future of Oyo South’s representation should be shaped by informed citizens, constructive engagement, and a commitment to inclusive governance.
Women’s voices matter. Women’s representation matters. And meaningful participation must translate into a stronger voice in decision-making.
BASA for Senate 2027 — Oyo South Senatorial District.
Ambassador Segun Akinlabi, City Talk With Egalitarian Convener writes from Ibadan, Oyo State.
October 11, 2026.
