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The Story Of Sen. MONSURAT SUNMONU
She is arguably one of the most influential female politicians in Oyo currently. Senator Monsurat Sunmonu’s name does not instantly ring a bell when mentioned in Oyo politics because presently, she does not have any official office to her name. But she is so powerful in the Oyo corridor of power, especially with Governor Makinde. In fact, in the political landscape of Oyo State today, not many names command as much respect, influence, and cross-party relevance as Senator Monsurat Olajumoke Sunmonu. Widely regarded as one of the most powerful female politicians in the Pacesetter State, Sunmonu has carved a reputation as a trailblazer, a consensus builder, and a strategic political figure whose influence continues to shape governance and political alliances in Oyo State. This is one woman who has the “passwords” of the Governor in her hand. In fact, the people in the state believe she is one person who determines who gets what in the state. All the key appointments and decisions within the state are made or influenced by the woman whom Governor Makinde always describes as a partner in progress.
Her remarkable career, which spans the State Assembly, National Assembly and advisory roles in government, has positioned her as one of the most experienced female political leaders in South-West Nigeria.
She was born on April 9, 1959, in Oyo town, Monsurat Sunmonu’s journey into politics was preceded by an impressive professional career abroad. She studied Business and Management at Lewisham College in the United Kingdom and later worked at National Westminster Bank before joining the UK Border Agency, where she served for over two decades. During her time in the British government, she rose through the ranks and attained senior management roles, earning high-level security clearance—an achievement considered rare for a Nigerian at the time.
Her exposure to international governance systems, leadership management and public administration later shaped her approach to politics and legislative leadership when she returned to Nigeria.
She entered Nigerian politics in 2011, contesting for the Oyo East and Oyo West constituency seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly. She secured a sweeping electoral victory, winning all wards in her constituency, which instantly established her as a formidable political force.
Her emergence as Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly the same year marked a historic moment. She became the first female Speaker in the state’s history, breaking gender barriers in a political terrain traditionally dominated by men.
As Speaker, Sunmonu led a productive legislature that passed 61 bills into law and adopted hundreds of resolutions that guided executive policies. She also spearheaded legislative efforts supporting financial autonomy for State Houses of Assembly and local governments across Nigeria, demonstrating her commitment to institutional strengthening and democratic accountability.
Building on her legislative success, Sunmonu advanced to the national stage in 2015 when she was elected Senator representing Oyo Central Senatorial District, becoming the first female senator from Oyo State.
During her time in the Senate, she chaired the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and sponsored motions focused on public welfare, including initiatives aimed at compelling hospitals to treat accident and gunshot victims without bureaucratic delays.
Her legislative advocacy extended to gender equality and youth empowerment, while her foundation initiatives have supported women and vulnerable communities across Oyo State.
Sunmonu’s “many firsts” — first female Speaker and first female Senator from Oyo State — have cemented her reputation as a pioneer of women’s political participation. Her success opened doors for female political engagement and inspired a generation of women leaders across the state.
One of Sunmonu’s strongest political attributes is her ability to maintain influence across party lines. She has worked with different political platforms while sustaining strong grassroots support, making her a bridge builder in Oyo politics.
Political stakeholders often describe her as a “mother figure” who nurtures emerging politicians. Her mentorship and community empowerment programmes have helped build loyalty and long-term political structures across Oyo Central and beyond.
Having served at both state and national legislative levels, Sunmonu possesses vast governance experience, making her an influential voice in policy formulation and political strategy.
Sunmonu’s relationship with Governor Seyi Makinde is widely seen as one built on political trust, strategic collaboration and shared commitment to Oyo State development.
Governor Makinde has repeatedly described Sunmonu as a “partner in progress,” acknowledging her contributions to governance and state development. According to the governor, her commitment and sacrifices for Oyo State span decades, making her one of the state’s most reliable political stakeholders.
Her loyalty to Makinde’s administration became evident when she openly supported his re-election bid, a move that reportedly led to her expulsion from her former political party at the time. This incident highlighted her willingness to prioritise political alliances she believes align with Oyo’s developmental agenda.
Sunmonu has also served as a member of Makinde’s advisory political circle, providing strategic insights and helping to mobilise grassroots support for government policies and programmes.
Observers often note that Sunmonu helps connect experienced political figures with emerging leaders within Oyo State’s governance structure, strengthening political stability and continuity.
Beyond elective offices, Monsurat Sunmonu remains an enduring symbol of female empowerment and progressive leadership in Oyo State politics. Her contributions to legislative development, grassroots empowerment and political mentoring continue to shape governance narratives in the state.
Political leaders and stakeholders consistently describe her as a trailblazer, stateswoman and pillar of progressive politics whose wisdom and experience remain valuable to both present and future administrations.
Senator Monsurat Sunmonu’s political journey represents resilience, leadership excellence and strategic influence. Her rise from a UK government career to becoming one of the most respected female political figures in Oyo State underscores her determination and capacity for governance.
Her strong relationship with Governor Seyi Makinde is not merely political convenience but a reflection of mutual respect, proven loyalty and shared commitment to advancing Oyo State’s development.
As Oyo State continues to evolve politically and economically, Monsurat Sunmonu’s legacy and influence remain firmly embedded in the state’s governance and leadership architecture.
