The All Progressives Congress (APC) consolidated its electoral strength in Saturday’s bye-elections, winning 12 out of 16 legislative seats contested across 12 states, according to results released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
APC Victories
The APC swept seats in Ogun, Edo, Niger, Kaduna, Taraba, Jigawa, Adamawa, and Kogi. It also clinched one of two seats in Kano, defeating the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the Ghari/Tsanyawa constituency. The victories extended APC’s dominance across federal and state legislatures.
Opposition Gains
- NNPP bounced back in Kano’s Shanono/Bagwai constituency, retaining its majority in the state assembly.
- All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) triumphed in Anambra South senatorial district and Onitsha North 1 constituency, boosting its representation in the National Assembly.
- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) reclaimed the Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat in Oyo after more than a decade.
Controversies
The elections, though largely peaceful, were marred by accusations of vote-buying, thuggery, and irregularities. In Anambra, Deputy Governor Onyekachukwu Ibezim and the Environment Commissioner narrowly escaped mob attack. Both APC and NNPP also vowed to challenge results in Kano.
Presidential Reaction
President Bola Tinubu congratulated winners across party lines and praised INEC for conducting peaceful elections. He described APC’s performance as a strong start under new National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and assured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to a “better, more secure, and prosperous Nigeria.”
