A fresh wave of political tension is building within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a female House of Representatives aspirant, Tracy Mcwary, has issued a passionate and strongly worded press statement accusing the party of systematically excluding women through what she described as “prohibitive” nomination fees.
In a statement obtained by Chronicles Reporters, Mcwary, who is contesting for the House of Representatives in Bende Federal Constituency and also serves as President of the Coalition of Women’s Participation in Politics (CWPP), made a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the ruling party, urging immediate intervention to prevent further marginalization of women in Nigerian politics.
Mcwary stated:
“On behalf of the teaming women of our great party, we write with utmost respect to the President and Commander-in-Chief, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the leadership of our great party, the All Progressives Congress.
We write concerning the issue of the systematic exclusion of women from participating in the political process.
This is evident in the prohibitive cost of nomination forms, especially for the National Assembly.”
Her statement comes amid growing national concerns about the declining representation of women in Nigeria’s political leadership, particularly in the National Assembly, where female representation has continued to drop over successive electoral cycles.
Highlighting the financial barrier facing women, Mcwary warned that the current fees effectively shut women out of the democratic process.
“Your Excellency, the high costs of nomination forms are clearly unaffordable. Only a few women can afford ₦100 million and ₦70 million respectively for Senate and House of Representatives positions, especially at this time of economic hardship. This comes at a time when we have only four female senators and a handful of female members in the House of Representatives. Maintaining fees at these levels will further constrict women’s participation in the democratic space.”
Her remarks reflect growing dissatisfaction among female politicians and civil society advocates who argue that economic barriers remain one of the biggest obstacles to gender inclusion in Nigeria’s political system.
Mcwary also reminded the party leadership of what she described as a progressive decision taken ahead of the 2023 elections, which granted free nomination forms to women — a policy she said has not been sustained.
“It is important to note that our great party once demonstrated leadership and commitment to inclusion by granting free nomination forms to women ahead of the 2023 general elections. However, this laudable policy has not been sustained or institutionalized for future electoral cycles, thereby creating uncertainty and renewed barriers for aspiring female candidates.”
She further warned against what she described as contradictions between party rhetoric and actual policy direction.
“Our party cannot continue to express support for the Beijing Declaration and affirmative action for women’s participation in politics and leadership, while advertently or inadvertently promoting policies that undermine the objectives of the aforesaid declaration.
We cannot continue to preach inclusion and practice exclusion.”
The CWPP President painted a stark picture of the current political climate, stressing that women are being invited into politics but financially excluded.
“Today, the reality is clear:
Women are being invited into the political process, yet priced out of participation.
You cannot ask women to run a race and tie their legs at the same time.”
She emphasized that Nigeria is not lacking competent women capable of leadership roles.
“Nigeria has never lacked competent women. From our homes to the highest offices, women continue to prove their worth. The leadership and grace of Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON is a testament to what women can achieve when given the opportunity.
So we ask:
Why make participation a costly venture instead of a democratic endeavor?
Why limit the very voices that can strengthen our democracy?”
Mcwary then issued a direct call to action, urging President Tinubu and APC leadership to take concrete steps.
“We respectfully call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the party leadership to:
- Grant free nomination forms for women
- Provide real support, not mere symbolism or sloganeering
- Take deliberate steps toward true inclusion
When women rise, democracy is strengthened.
When women are excluded, democracy is weakened.”
She warned that failure to act urgently could further reduce women’s participation in governance.
“Without urgent action, we risk a further reduction in female participation in governance, including in the 11th National Assembly.
This is not just an appeal.
This is a call for fairness. A call for justice.”
Extending her appeal beyond party lines, Mcwary also called on women across Nigeria’s political divide to unite.
“We also call on Progressive Women and women across all Parties to lend their voices and stand in solidarity to ensure equal and effective participation of women in political process.
The time to act is now.
This is our moment!”
The statement, signed by Tracy Mcwary, House of Representatives Aspirant for Bende Federal Constituency and President of Coalition of Women’s Participation in Politics (CWPP), has already begun generating reactions among women groups, party stakeholders, and political observers.
Political analysts say the development could spark a broader debate on gender inclusion, political financing, and democratic accessibility as Nigeria prepares for another electoral cycle.
For many observers, Mcwary’s message is clear, the fight for women’s political inclusion is far from over, and the battle lines are now being drawn within the ruling party itself.