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In the lead-up to the 2023 gubernatorial elections in Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde promised to enhance gender inclusivity within his administration by increasing the number of female commissioners in the state's executive council from two to four.
This promise was part of his "Omituntun 2.0" agenda, aimed at building upon the successes of his first term and promoting equitable representation in governance.The Advokc Foundation tracked this promise as part of its mission to monitor and promote the fulfillment of electoral promises in Nigeria. Governor Makinde’s promise was recognized as a critical step toward gender equality in Oyo State's political landscape. However, early appointments failed to reflect the promised increase in female representation.
This raised concerns and prompted Advokc Foundation to take action. We leveraged social media platforms, published public reminders, and engaged the Governor to draw attention to the unfulfilled promise.
Thanks to consistent advocacy, the issue gained renewed attention in the state's political discourse and the administration responded by appointing four female commissioners, fulfilling the pledge and reaffirming its promise to inclusive governance.The female commissioners appointed were:
Alhaja Fausat Joke Sanni – Commissioner for Special Duties
Mrs. Toyin Balogun – Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion
Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi – Commissioner for Health
Miss Wasilat Adegoke – Commissioner for Youth and Sports
This development was widely celebrated by civil society actors and political stakeholders alike, including former Commissioner Professor Abdulrahman Raphael Afonja, who commended the Governor’s inclusive approach and its positive impact on unemployment and governance in the state.The successful fulfillment of this campaign promise highlights the power of persistent advocacy and the importance of holding public officials accountable. The role played by Advokc Foundation in this outcome is a powerful example of how civil society can influence policy decisions and promote a more inclusive, representative government.