Former Southeast Spokesman to President Tinubu faults near-total exclusion of women in 73-member Central Coordination Committee

The Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of Enugu State House of Assembly and former Southeast Spokesman to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Denge Josef Onoh, has strongly criticised the composition of the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2026 National Convention Central Coordination Committee, describing it as “extremely discriminatory” to women.

In a statement made available to newsmen on today, Onoh commended the party leadership for the timely constitution of the Central Coordination Committee, describing it as a signal of serious preparation for the landmark 2026 National Convention.

He particularly praised the appointment of high-profile leaders to steer the committee, including: H.E. Sen. Hope Uzodimma, CON – Chairman, H.E. Alh. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON – Vice Chairman, H.E. Hon. Mai Mala Buni, CON – Secretary.

However, Onoh expressed deep disappointment over what he called the “glaring and extreme male domination” in the 73-member committee.

“A careful review of the full list reveals virtually no women — or at best one or two, if any were inadvertently omitted in public releases,” he stated.

According to Onoh, this near-total exclusion sends a troubling message that women remain peripheral in the APC’s most critical decision-making and planning structures — even as the party prepares for a national convention that will shape its future direction, candidate selection, and policy priorities.

He described the situation as more than a matter of optics, calling it “a missed opportunity for genuine inclusivity.”

“Nigeria’s women constitute over half the population and have consistently delivered massive votes for the APC in elections. Yet in this pivotal committee, they appear almost entirely excluded,” Onoh said.

He warned that the party risks being seen as “all muscles and no tenderness” — one that mobilises women vigorously during campaigns but sidelines them when real power and influence are allocated.

Onoh pointed to history to buttress his argument, citing examples of parties that benefited from women’s active participation:

The National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) drew immense strength from trailblazing women such as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, who founded the Abeokuta Women’s Union and played a major role in anti-colonial struggles and party mobilisation.

The Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and its successor, the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), elevated Hajia Gambo Sawaba to lead the national women’s wing, giving women a visible and influential platform in northern politics despite the challenges of the era.

He noted that even recent experiments with deliberate — though imperfect — inclusion have produced stronger grassroots support and broader appeal for political parties.

Onoh urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Chairman of the APC to urgently review and revise the composition of the Central Coordination Committee — as well as any related sub-committees or structures contained in the released timetable — to ensure meaningful participation of women.

He recommended at least 30% representation for women, in line with global best practices, Nigeria’s National Gender Policy, and the APC’s own manifesto commitments to gender equity.

“Appointing credible women leaders — governors, senators, ministers, party executives, and activists — would demonstrate sincerity,” he added.

The former spokesman warned that failure to act would be detrimental, saying it risks: Alienating a key demographic, Weakening internal cohesion, Damaging the party’s image ahead of future elections and Reinforcing the narrative that the APC undervalues half of its support base.

“Inclusivity is not a favor; it is smart politics and essential for sustainable success,” Onoh declared.

"Let us build a truly progressive party — one where women are not just voters or mobilisers, but equal architects of our future.”

He expressed hope that the leadership would rise to the moment and make the necessary adjustments. (Vanguard)

* REMEMBER TO ATTACH THE 2026 APC NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRAL COORDINATION COMMITTEE CHART AFTER PARAGRAPH 6

• PHOTO: Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of Enugu State House of Assembly and former Southeast Spokesman to President Tinubu, Onoh