Former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Princess Sarah Sosan, has urged Nigerian women to intensify their advocacy for political inclusion ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly by demanding increased representation in the legislature.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Voice of Nigeria in Abuja, Sosan warned that declining female representation in elective positions must be reversed to ensure women’s perspectives are reflected in national policies, legislation and decisions affecting families and communities.
On the relevance of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN), Sosan described the platform as an opportunity for former public office holders to continue contributing their experience to national development.
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“When this forum was convened five years ago, we were all very happy because it’s a medium to still contribute what we have gained while in office and outside the office,” she said.
The forum, according to Sosan, enables members to exchange ideas, share knowledge and channel recommendations to relevant government institutions.
Integrity, transparency and communication with citizens were identified by the former deputy governor as fundamental to effective governance, with elected leaders expected to remain accountable to the people who entrust them with public office.
“The aspect of integrity is very key in governance. Transparency is very key in governance and above all, communicating with those we administer,” Sosan stressed.
Public officials must also report regularly on their activities and create opportunities to listen to citizens, the former Lagos State deputy governor urged, noting that public trust must be matched by responsible leadership.
“They’ve given us that trust to do it and as politicians we should not fail them,” she maintained.
On women’s political representation, Sosan expressed concern over the declining number of women in elective positions, particularly at the national legislative level.
The number of women in the legislature should increase rather than decline, the former deputy governor insisted, adding that women would continue to demand greater participation in political decision-making.
“At the national level we expect especially at the legislative level we should have more numbers not to decrease and we will not keep quiet,” she reiterated.
Sosan expressed hope that legislative efforts to expand women’s representation would succeed, arguing that women’s participation was crucial to addressing social needs and advancing the interests of women, young people and children.
“You don’t know, it’s only you as a woman that knows where the shoe pinches. Men cannot know what to decide for us,” she observed.
Encouraging women who felt discouraged by limited progress, the former deputy governor called for continued determination and a stronger collective voice.
“I tell women, don’t give up. We will not give up,” Sosan urged.
Sosan called on women to sustain their demand for equitable representation, expressing confidence that continued advocacy would help secure their place in national decision-making.
“Let’s continue to make our voice stronger and we will get what we want. Our numbers will be recognised and we will be there to decide with the men,” she said.
