A 26‑year‑old lady, Rukayat Shittu, won a seat to represent Owode/Onire constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly. She spoke with Ayo Olasu Po about her political journey and her emergence as the youngest lawmaker‑elect in the state.
When asked how it feels to be the youngest member‑elect for a state House of Assembly, she said she feels “so good and overwhelmed” by the reactions of people across the country. She called the opportunity “rare” and vowed to use it judiciously. This was her first attempt at running for office, and she expressed gratitude to God for the victory.
Regarding her motivation to join the race despite Nigeria’s volatile political terrain, Shittu explained that she has always been passionate about governance and politics. From her university days she served as a student union leader, holding several positions, including senate president. She has been involved in numerous government activities, workshops, training sessions, and political engagements, which cemented her passion for public service.
She was asked whether she expected to win or was simply optimistic. Shittu replied that there were indications of victory and a “bit of optimism.” She told everyone she was contesting to win, citing the strong record of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, the perceived blessing of the party, the impressive track record of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, and the capability of the party’s candidates. With her own record and the people’s support, she felt confident that the victory was inevitable. She added that confidence is a hallmark of her personality, not limited to politics, and that she remains positive regardless of outcomes.
After winning the APC ticket in May 2022, her candidacy was challenged in court by another aspirant, Ayinde Alajere. The Court of Appeal dismissed the case for lack of merit. Shittu said she viewed the legal challenge as “victory for all” and an example of democracy at work. She emphasized that seeking redress through the courts is appropriate when dissatisfied, and that both she and Alajere are winners because they belong to the same party. She noted that Alajere even campaigned for her once the campaign began.
On her legislative agenda, Shittu promised to sponsor bills that benefit her constituents and to lobby for projects in her constituency. She described this as “quality representation,” stressing that she will not be a “bench warmer” but will build relationships with the executive and other arms of government to deliver tangible results for the people.
When asked what contributed to her victory—manifesto, gender, youth, or high‑level backing—she affirmed that all these factors played a role, along with support from people inside and outside her constituency and the support of Almighty Allah.
Balancing her roles as a media practitioner, fashionista, and entrepreneur, Shittu said she does not see a conflict. She has a capable team managing her fashion house, and her media work is part of her entrepreneurship. She continues to write her own stories, but once she resumes office, she will delegate responsibilities.
Regarding gender marginalisation, Shittu argued that in Kwara State women are not marginalised. She cited the governor’s support for women, noting that about 56 % of his cabinet are female, which made it easier for her to secure the ticket in a state that values both women and men.
She outlined her education and experiences: born on 6 June 1996, she attended Baptist Primary LGEA School in Surulere, Ilorin, then Government Girls Day Secondary School in 2005. After an accident in JSS 3, she transferred back to Ilorin, completing secondary school in 2011. In 2012 she enrolled at Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies, earning a diploma in Mass Communication and Islamic Studies in 2015, during which she also learned fashion. She later studied Mass Communication at the National Open University of Nigeria, graduating in 2022 with a Second Class Upper Division. Her certificates have been issued, and she has now been elected to the Kwara State House of Assembly.
Funding her campaign, Shittu relied on support from people. The APC’s Expression of Interest form was free for females and youths, and she paid only 50 % of the nomination form. Her parents and acquaintances assisted financially. Her father, in particular, paid her university bills, and she has always enjoyed their encouragement, prayers, and pride in her achievement.
When asked whether she had a “godfather” in a male‑dominated arena, she responded that the people are her godparents, and that everyone is happy because her village’s name is now widely known.
Looking ahead to her first four years, Shittu hopes her legacy will be a positive reference point that inspires future generations. She credited friends and classmates for playing essential roles during the campaign, providing money, materials, and spiritual support.
Addressing speculation about her marital status, she clarified that she is engaged, not single, and that many married women succeed in politics, so she does not see it as an issue.
Regarding the gender composition of the Assembly, she noted that women can tackle issues without men, and that collaboration among all members is smooth. Pre‑election meetings have already fostered teamwork, leaving no cause for apprehension.
Finally, her biggest lesson from the election is the importance of always being prepared, as politics is unpredictable. Maintaining a good record ensures that people can easily refer to her when seeking opportunities and positive change.
Comments are closed for this story.