RismadarVoice Reporters
May 18, 2026
The lawmaker representing Rivers West Senatorial District, Senator Ipalibo Banigo-Harry, has reacted to her disqualification from the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election, describing herself as qualified and deserving of clearance.
Banigo-Harry, a former Deputy Governor of Rivers State under the administration of ex-governor Nyesom Wike, spoke on Monday while addressing journalists at her ward in Obuama, Degema Local Government Area, shortly after receiving supporters who gathered to welcome her.
The senator maintained that her current position as a serving member of the National Assembly and her legislative experience make her a suitable candidate for the contest.
She stressed the importance of experienced women remaining active in national politics, particularly at a time when efforts are being intensified to increase female participation and representation in governance.
According to her, national politics requires experienced leadership capable of delivering meaningful benefits to the people and contributing to the development of their constituencies and states.
Banigo-Harry appealed to her supporters to remain calm despite the development, expressing optimism that the party leadership at the national level would review the situation and take appropriate action.
She also called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, citing his previous support for greater inclusion of qualified women in leadership positions.
The senator noted that women remain underrepresented in the Senate and argued that experienced female lawmakers should be encouraged to continue contributing to the legislative process.
She further urged the APC leadership to examine the issue from the standpoint of fairness, equity, justice, and gender inclusion, while expressing confidence that the party has the capacity to address the matter appropriately.
Banigo-Harry stated that strengthening women’s participation in politics would contribute to more balanced representation and help preserve legislative experience within the National Assembly.
