APC’s Tolu Bankole Backs Reserved Seats Bill, Urges Inclusion of Persons With Disabilities

A member of the All Progressives Congress National Working Committee, Tolu Bankole, has endorsed the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, urging lawmakers to speed up its passage while extending the initiative to cover Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).

Bankole, who serves as the APC national leader for Persons With Disabilities, gave the commendation in a statement released in Abuja on Sunday.

The proposed legislation seeks to create 37 additional seats each in the Senate and House of Representatives, along with three reserved seats per state assembly, strictly for female candidates.

The bill, now set for a third reading in October, will proceed to state legislatures before being transmitted to the President for assent.

Nigeria currently records one of the lowest female legislative representations globally, with women occupying just 3.7% of Senate seats and 3.9% in the House of Representatives.

Bankole described the bill as a reflection of Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen inclusivity in governance.

“Women are the engine room of development. No women, no nation. Nigerian women are not only beautiful but also smart, responsive, caring, responsible, competent, and reliable. Their managerial ingenuity is both distinguished and honourable.

They are the backbone of every successful household and, by extension, of organisations and nations.

Their inclusion in political leadership will enrich decision-making, drive innovation, and strengthen our democracy.”

He appealed to lawmakers at both state and national levels to ensure the bill is passed without delay, while also recognising the rights of PWDs.

“I respectfully urge our distinguished legislators to pass this all-important bill without delay and to extend the same treatment to Persons With Disabilities, who remain among the most vulnerable in our society.”

The APC chieftain argued that PWDs, like women, bring diverse perspectives and valuable skills to leadership roles.

“Affirmative action for PWDs is not just an act of compassion but a national imperative to harness the skills and insights of millions of Nigerians who face systemic barriers,” he stated.

Bankole emphasised that inclusive representation would not only break stereotypes but also create role models for younger generations while enhancing Nigeria’s democratic growth.