Anambra Guber and the Quest for Female Governor in Nigeria

By Ukpa Ewa

As the political landscape of Anambra State awakens in anticipation of the 2025 governorship elections, one undeniable truth remains: the prospect of election of first female governor from the ballot in Nigeria feels like an elusive dream.

Despite the constitutional guarantees of equality and a growing global discourse on women’s empowerment, the barriers against female leadership in Nigeria are as formidable as they are entrenched.

In a country where culture, politics, and gender intertwine intricately, the road to higher political office, Governorship for women is riddled with significant obstacles that few seem prepared to overcome.

Chioma Ifemeludike stands as a beacon of hope amidst this challenging environment. The actress-turned-activist is the only woman contesting the Anambra governorship as a candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC). Yet, her journey is a daunting one, characterized by condescension, sabotage, and financial starvation.

“The system isn’t designed for women to win,” she lamented, articulating the deep frustrations many women in politics face.

As Chioma continues to navigate fundraising hurdles and logistical nightmares just to communicate her vision to the electorate, the stark reality becomes evident: women like her are not just battling for a position; they are fighting a systemic battle against deeply ingrained biases.

Political Parties’ Perceptions: A Question of Interest?
Major political parties contesting the Anambra Governorship maintain that female aspirants are insufficiently motivated, a claim that underscores the disconnect between party leadership and the sociocultural realities on the ground:
The Young Progressives Party (YPP) extended free nomination forms, which went unclaimed. “Democracy works on interest, not sympathy,” asserted National Chairman Comrade Bishop Amakiri, seemingly oblivious to the challenges female candidates face.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) made headlines by reducing its nomination fees significantly; still, no female candidates emerged. “Governorship isn’t a tea party. It requires serious commitment,” said Chairman Comrade Patrick Obianyo, a statement that raises questions about what commitment looks like for women.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) offered a 50% discount on its hefty nomination fees. With no woman ever having purchased the form in Anambra, State Secretary Ozomena Unegbu denounced the political landscape as a “billionaires club,” further entrenching the notion that resources dictate leadership.

Layered Barriers and Cultural Complications
The fight for female representation in Anambra is not merely about raising funds; it is a multifaceted struggle against a cultural mindset that often views women through a domestic lens. Many voters, with societal norms firmly etched into their psyche, tend to regard women as homemakers rather than leaders. “Even qualified women face skepticism; fellow women may see voting for her as a ‘waste,'” explains Nkiru Nwagbo, President of the Ultimate Business Women and Farmers Association.

Additionally, the lack of spousal and social support compounds these challenges. The demands of campaigning—characterized by long hours and extensive travel—are often viewed as incompatible with traditional gender roles.
As Igwe Pius Omachonu, Secretary of the Traditional Rulers Council, astutely points out, the societal structure does not nurture women in politics: “Which husband allows his wife to travel round-the-clock?”

Intra-gender apathy further exacerbates the situation, as many women do not rally behind female candidates. There is a striking reality that women vote more than men, but they often fail to support their peers in the political arena.
Human rights lawyer Barr. Ejiofo Umegbogu poignantly states, “If women all supported their own, things would change,” pointing to the missed opportunity for solidarity among women.

“If women all supported their own, things would change…

Legally, women face no restrictions to pursue political leadership. Barr. Umegbogu affirms that the Constitution guarantees their right to run; the challenges that surface are deeply rooted in societal attitudes, economic disparities, and a lack of in-group support among women.

Closing the Gap
As we look towards the future, the aspiration for a female governor in Anambra and other states in Nigeria, hangs heavily in the balance. To transform possibility into reality, systemic barriers must be dismantled through united efforts that include advocacy, financial support, political education, and, most critically, solidarity among women themselves.

The time for change is now. Women of Anambra and Nigeria, the call to action is clear: support each other in breaking the glass ceiling. Engage in your local politics, uplift one another, and recognize that representation matters. Your voice is powerful; when united, it becomes unstoppable. The future of Nigeria or Anambra’s leadership could be in your hands. Let’s mobilize, demand change, and work together for a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.