Womanifesto Denounces Violence Against Women in Politics

On May 25, 2026, Womanifesto, a coalition of 250 women's rights organizations in Nigeria, condemned the rising violence and intimidation against women participating in the political process. The group, led by Dr. Abiola Akiyod Afolabi, expressed alarm over violent assaults, particularly involving Senator Ireti Kingibe, a female aspirant from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abuja.

The coalition highlighted incidents during the APC primaries in Bama, Ngala, and Kala Balg in Borno State, where Dr. Zainab Gimba was allegedly attacked by thugs. Womanifesto raised concerns about the failure of security agencies to intervene and protect women during these violent assaults.

The coalition issued five demands, including immediate investigations, stronger protections for women, and swift arrests and prosecutions of those responsible for sponsoring such attacks. They emphasized that the political space in Nigeria cannot continue to operate as a battlefield of violence and impunity, which silences women's voices and excludes them from leadership roles.