Blog Details

* Elated Tinubu rejoices, hails INEC for hitch-free polls, commends electorate for voting APC

* Victory is endorsement of the president, ruling party boasts

*ADC alleges intimidation, corruption, LP says it’s mockery of democracy, travesty of justice; PDP chief dismisses exercise as fraud

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City, James Sowole in Abeokuta, John Shiklam in Kaduna, David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka, Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano, Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja, Daji Sani in Yola and Laleye Dipo in Minna

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) claimed a decisive win in weekend’s bye-elections held in 16 constituencies across 12 states of the federation, emerging victorious in 12 constituencies. 

All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) won two constituencies, while Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) gained the upper hand in one constituency each, in poll outcomes that were roundly rejected by the opposition parties.

The ballot on Saturday appeared to be a critical test of the strengths and current standings of the major political parties as the country prepared for general election in 2027.

While there were slightly stiff competitions in a few states, like Kano, the political parties mainly took the helm in states where they controlled the government, a pointer to what might pan out in the 2027 general election.

President Bola Tinubu rejoiced with all the winners, just as APC described the triumph of its candidates as an endorsement of the Tinubu administration.

But African Democratic Congress (ADC), Labour Party (LP), and PDP condemned the exercise.

Tinubu, in a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended INEC for hitch-free elections, mostly devoid of violence.

Tinubu also congratulated the new APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, for the emphatic first victory recorded under his leadership.

He also congratulated the APC governors and other leaders on the success of the bye-elections.

The president stated, “Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda has shown leadership capacity and demonstrated what is achievable when popular candidates are fielded and with unity of purpose among party leaders.

“To all APC faithful and the electorate, thank you for the confidence reposed in our party. Be assured that our Renewed Hope slogan is not a mere slogan. Our destination is a better, more secure and prosperous Nigeria. We shall take you there, by the Grace of God.”

He commended all the political parties and candidates, who participated in the election, and enjoined them to continue to be guided by the spirit of sportsmanship, fair contest, and magnanimity, which were enablers of enduring democracy.

National Publicity Secretary of APC, Felix Morka, in a statement, commended the president for creating a level playing field for the bye-election.

The ruling party also commended progressive governors, devoted party leaders, members and supporters for their sacrificial efforts and contributions towards the party’s victory.

Morka stated, “This win is yet another solid endorsement of President Bola Tinubu administration and its Renewed Hope Agenda designed to deliver, and now steadily delivering transformation of our country’s economy and other sectors of our national life. 

“Our hearty congratulations go to our victorious candidates across the country, and we charge them to reward their constituents with purposeful legislative interventions that translate Renewed Hope Agenda to meaningful benefits for the people.