APC Women Bemoan Neglect Amidst Economic Hardship

Two years after the All-Progressives Congress (APC) secured victory in the 2023 general elections, over 550 women who served in the party’s Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) have expressed deep disappointment and frustration over their perceived neglect and exclusion from appointments and national engagement. In a press conference held in Abuja and delivered by Princess Remi Aisoni, a senior figure within the Women’s Wing of the PCC, the women issued a heartfelt appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, urging them to address what they described as a grave injustice.

The women, who were instrumental in mobilizing grassroots support across the nation during the campaign, claim that despite their unwavering loyalty and substantial personal sacrifices, they have been left unrewarded and unrecognized since the administration took office.

“These women worked tirelessly, sacrificing time, resources, and personal well-being to ensure the success of our party and the victory of our President,” said Princess Aisoni. “Throughout the campaign period, they stood firmly behind the First Lady, crisscrossing the country, mobilizing support, canvassing votes, and advocating for the party’s agenda at the grassroots level.”

Despite these contributions, Aisoni revealed that not a single member of the Women’s Wing of the PCC has been offered an appointment or public acknowledgment. According to her, the current sense of abandonment is both demoralizing and unjust.

“Our members are left to watch from the sidelines, while others who played no significant roles are being recognized and elevated,” she continued. “This ‘use-and-dump’ approach is deeply troubling and sends a discouraging message to women across the party’s political spectrum.”

The group emphasized that while they understand that not everyone can be given political appointments, some form of appreciation or engagement is warranted for those who put their lives and resources on the line for the party. They also paid tribute to members who lost their lives during the campaign, urging the government to remember their sacrifices.

“Democracy must be inclusive and rewarding, especially for those who labored for its triumph. We are calling on Mr. President and the First Lady to urgently look into this matter,” Aisoni added. “This is not just about political compensation. It is about fairness, appreciation, and maintaining the faith of Nigerian women in our democracy.”

The press statement comes at a time of increasing economic hardship in the country, which the women say has compounded their feeling of neglect. Many are reportedly struggling financially, having depleted personal funds during the intense 2023 campaign period.

Still, the women maintained a tone of loyalty and hope. They congratulated President Tinubu on his two years in office and expressed support for the administration’s ongoing economic reforms, acknowledging the early signs of recovery.

“We commend the President’s doggedness and policy direction,” said Aisoni. “But we also remind the leadership that those who stood by them in difficult times must not be forgotten. Let this administration be remembered not for abandoning its foot soldiers but for honoring sacrifice, commitment, and rewarding loyalty.”

The group warned that failure to address their grievances could affect the morale of women in future elections, particularly as Nigeria approaches another electoral cycle in 2027 amidst growing coalition activities nationwide.

By Philip