The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Aisha Alhassan, has disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari has backed her ambition to contest for the governorship of Taraba State in 2019.
She made this known at the 18th Regular National Council on Women Affairs and Social Development held in Lagos on Thursday.
Alhassan, who is popularly called Mama Taraba, contested against Darius Ishaku in 2015 and lost.
However, she stated that she would not stop trying until she is “too weak to try”.
She also encouraged more women shed the garb of fear and get involved in politics until 35 percent affirmative action for women is achieved in the country.
Alhassan said, “I have written my notification letter to my boss, President Muhammadu Buhari, and he wished me well and gave me the assurance that he will support Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and security agencies to conduct free, fair and transparent election.
“So what are we, women, afraid of? Mr. President has guaranteed free, fair election, so lets us carry on, come out and contest. We are mothers, bridge builders because we are more trustworthy and more reliable as women.
“Let’s go out there and contest so that we get at least 35 percent affirmative. In a few days I will go back to my constituency now that Mr. President has given a nod to go and try again. I will try again and never be tired of trying, until I am too weak to try. This time, God should answer women.”
Read Also: Alhassan Denies Resigning From Buhari’s Govt
Recall that Alhassan last week denied resigning from Buhari’s cabinet.
She said, “Contrary to insinuations especially in the social media, I only sought for permission from President Muhammdu Buhari to begin consultations.
“This is preparatory to my seeking nomination from our great party the All Progressive Congress (APC) to contest for the office of the governor of Taraba state in 2019, which he has graciously accepted.”