Bintu Fatimat Akerele-Shobaloju, a legal practitioner from Oworo, is seeking election to the Lagos State House of Assembly for Kosofe Constituency I. She previously contested in 2023 and served as coordinator of her party’s assembly aspirants group. She draws attention to the persistent underrepresentation of women in the system, noting that only four of forty members are female, with no woman ever having represented her constituency.
Shaped by her participation in Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s Women Empowerment Programme and her internship experience at Wall & Ace Law Firm, Akerele-Shobaloju is advocating for stronger leadership support and structured mentorship to break existing barriers and promote more inclusive governance.
Can you briefly introduce yourself?
My name is Bintu Fatimat Akerele-Shobaloju, a legal practitioner, a resident of Oworo, where I was born, raised, and have lived all my life. I am also a proud participant in the Women Empowerment Programme (WEP) Orientation Programme themed “Building Youth Capacity for Effective Engagement,” organized under the distinguished leadership of Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
What political office are you currently aspiring for?
I am currently an aspirant contesting for the Lagos State House of Assembly, Kosofe Constituency I.
Have you previously contested for this position?
Yes, I previously contested in 2023 but was unable to secure the party ticket as the incumbent was allowed to complete a second term.
What leadership roles have you played within the party structure?
During the 2023 election period, I served as the Secretary and coordinating force behind the Lagos State House of Assembly Aspirants 2023 Group. In that capacity, I worked diligently to mobilize aspirants across Lagos State, foster unity, and promote collective support that contributed immensely to our party’s electoral success.
What concerns do you have regarding female representation in the Lagos State House of Assembly?
I remain deeply concerned about the underrepresentation of women in the Lagos State House of Assembly, where only four out of forty members are women. More importantly, no woman has ever represented Kosofe Constituency I in the Assembly.
Why do you believe there is a need for intervention in women’s political participation?
This imbalance highlights the urgent need for deliberate intervention and strategic support aimed at encouraging female participation and representation in governance.
What kind of support are you seeking from female leaders and stakeholders?
I humbly seek support, guidance, and leadership intervention as a female aspirant from Kosofe Constituency I. Continued advocacy for women in leadership inspires many of us who are determined to break longstanding barriers and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
How did the Women Empowerment Programme impact your professional and leadership journey?
Following the impactful programme, I was privileged to undertake a one-month internship at Wall & Ace Law Firm under the supervision of Hon. Tokunbo Philip Wahab. The experience significantly enhanced my professional capacity and further strengthened my passion for public service and governance.
What is your commitment to public service and governance?
I remain committed to service, excellence, and the advancement of inclusive governance. It would be a great honour to receive support and encouragement in this regard.