The African Action Congress (AAC) has strongly condemned sexist remarks and coded language directed at its Anambra governorship candidate, Chioma Ifemeludike, following the circulation of her recent campaign photos and videos on social media.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Femi Adeyeye, the AAC described the online attacks as “a distraction from substantive political conversations” and an example of the persistent sexism that women in Nigerian politics continue to face.
“Our National Working Committee has observed how our candidate, a vibrant and ideologically clear woman, is being judged by her choice of outfit and physical features rather than by the strength of her ideas,” the statement read.
The party said the reactions to Ifemeludike’s campaign materials reveal the deep-rooted patriarchy that still shapes political discourse in Nigeria.
It noted that rather than engaging with her message of inclusive governance, some critics have resorted to making sexist jokes and mocking her appearance.
“The sexist jokes are condemned but not surprising,” the statement added.
“Even the National Assembly, which should model responsible representation, has often been a space where sexist comments go unchallenged.”
The AAC cited past examples of discrimination against women in politics, referencing Bianca Ojukwu’s experience during her ministerial confirmation and Senator Natasha Akpoti’s mistreatment in the Senate as evidence of systemic bias.
The party lamented that female politicians are often subjected to double scrutiny, forced to prove their competence while meeting society’s shifting standards of “acceptable” femininity.
“It is an unfortunate reality that women in politics are evaluated twice, first for their abilities and then for their appearance. This is unjust and distracts from the real issues that affect citizens,” the AAC said.
Calling for a shift in public perception, the party urged Nigerians to focus on ideas and leadership qualities rather than looks or attire.
“When we reduce women in politics to their bodies or clothing, we silence their vision and reinforce the belief that a woman’s worth is tied to her appearance, not her intellect or competence. Nigeria deserves better,” the statement continued.
The AAC appealed to voters to reject sexism in all forms and embrace a new kind of politics built on substance and inclusivity.
“The future we seek is one where leaders are judged by their policies, not their looks; their work ethic, not their wardrobe. Supporting women in politics is not charity, it’s democracy in its purest form,” the party emphasized.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the AAC’s support for Ifemeludike’s candidacy in the upcoming Anambra governorship election, urging citizens to back her vision for “good governance beyond theatrics.”
“Support the AAC. Vote for Chioma Ifemeludike, for progress, equity, and genuine change,” the party added.
