The Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) has declared Princess Adesola Elegbeji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the Saturday bye-election for Ikenne, Sagamu and Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State.
The bye-election was the first to be conducted in Ogun State by the INEC since the return of democracy.
The Remo Federal Constituency became vacant following the death of House Representatives Deputy Chief Whip, Otunba Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, popularly called Ijaya.
The late APC Reps member died January 15, 2025 after a protracted illness.
However, announcing the final results at the INEC collation centre in Ikenne, the Returning Officer, Prof. Kazeem Olajide Bello, declared that Elegbeji polled a total of 41,237 votes to defeat her closest contender, the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, who garnered polled 14, 324 votes.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) scored 289 votes.
Prof. Bello while declaring the winner in the early hours of Sunday, said Elegbeji: “by the powers conferred on me , having satisfied the requirements of the law and scored the highest number of valid votes cast, I hereby declared Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji as the winner.”
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has won the Kaduna State House of Assembly bye-elections conducted on Saturday in Zaria Kewaye and Basawa constituencies.
Announcing the results of the Zaria Kewaye constituency on Sunday morning, the Returning Officer, Prof. Balarabe Abdullahi, declared APC candidate Isa Haruna Ihamo winner with 26,613 votes.
His closest challenger, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Nuhu Sada Abdullahi, polled 5,721 votes, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Mamuda Abdullahi Wappa, came third with 5,331 votes.
Similarly, in the Basawa constituency bye-election, the Returning Officer, Prof. Nasiru Rabiu, announced that the APC also emerged victorious.
According to him, the APC candidate garnered 10,926 votes, defeating the PDP’s candidate, who secured 5,499 votes.
The twin victories further consolidate the APC’s dominance in Kaduna politics, especially in Zaria zone where the contests were largely considered a test of strength between the ruling party and the opposition.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party and a former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, a, a few days ago minced no words when he engaged some of his loyalists, stating that he would be on the ballot in the 2027 presidential election. However, he did not disclose on which platform his ambition will be actualised. Yet, uncertainties shroud his assertion, following divisions in opposition camps he is aligning with. ASSISTANT EDITOR EMMANUEL BADEJO writes on which way for him.
NIGERIA’s political landscape witnessed several events in the last few weeks. The events are not unusual in a democratic state. Early last month, a coalition adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC). While the Social Democratic Party (SDP) suspended its National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party, elected a new National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. It is also on record that at least 110 associations have shown interest in being registered as political parties. These are part of the game plans that usually trail any major election. Therefore, these developments are not new as the 2027 general election approaches.
Of all the events, the one that has gained more traction is the ADC coalition. The coalition, officially unveiled in July, encompasses prominent figures including former vice president and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar; 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi;, immediate past Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai; former governor, Rivers State and immediate past Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, and others. They have coalesced to offer an alternative to APC’s Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
While most of the leading figures are reportedly working towards getting either the presidential or vice presidential ticket of the ADC and have resigned membership of their former political families, the fate of the ‘light’ of the Labour Party (LP), Obi, hangs in the balance as he still maintains his membership with LP. And as permutations, calculations and realignments are still evolving in the ADC vehicle, Obi, on June 29, on X space, didn’t mince any words when he assured his supporters that he would be on the ballot to contest the 2027 presidential election. He equally spoke of the possibility of serving just one term of four years.
The former Anambra governor also clarified what was then speculated about his being part of a coalition where he would be the running mate to some politicians, denying that he entered into any such agreement. He said: “I have not joined in any form of discussion on joint tickets including with (former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar). If there is any form of agreement that will restrict me to four years in office, I will comply with the agreement and be ready to leave office by 28th May, 2031.”
With Obi’s declaration, pundits are wondering what the future holds for him as his party is split into two or three factions. The ADC is already looking unattractive and a no-go area following wrangling within the group over allegation that Atiku has hired the party and its machineries to contest the 2027 election. Similarly, there are rumours making the rounds that Obi is considering returning to the PDP. But, if he does, will he get its presidential ticket, when a faction of the party is already wooing former President Goodluck Jonathan to return and take the PDP’s ticket? Pundits ask: where does Obi stand and what are his chances of clinching the ticket of any major opposition party?
Factions in LP weaken party’s influence
That Obi is still a member of LP is not in doubt. But his party is caught in a battle of supremacy between Julius Abure-led and Esther Nemadi factions. The latter is backed by the only governor the party produced, Alex Otti, Obi and their loyalists.
Things are falling apart for the Labour Party. From relative obscurity, the LP emerged as a third force in Nigerian politics almost overnight, following the entrance of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi into the party ahead of the election. The youth embraced the LP.
But, the LP is currently facing a serious challenge. Internal squabble surfaced within the party, after the general election, following allegations of corruption against its National Chairman, Julius Abure. One allegation surfaced after another; putting the national chairman under pressure to defend his integrity and that of the party. This development, it is said, has dealt a heavy blow to the image of the party that had embodied the hope of many youths.
Speaking on the crisis rocking the LP, Obi said steps were being taken to get the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to endorse the Nenadi Usman-led National Caretaker Committee (NCC) of the LP, based on the April 4 Supreme Court judgment. The X Space interaction would suggest that Obi still has in mind to run the 2027 polls on the ticket of the LP, especially by disclosing the fact that his faction of the party led by a former Minister, Senator Nenadi Usman, was approaching INEC to sort out any lingering issues.
Sharing his thoughts on the imbroglio, the Chairman of the Partners for Electoral Reform, a non-governmental organisation, Ezenwa Nwagwu echoed this viewpoint.
He said the infighting and internal divisions within opposition parties “have weakened their unity and effectiveness, making it harder to present a cohesive alternative to the ruling party”. He added: “But now, cases of corruption and a clear violation of laws by opposition figures are providing ethical challenges that make it harder for them to challenge the government.
“Some people might find some of my positions very uncomfortable. But to transform our country, we must embrace some hard truth and continue to educate Nigerians on how to hold our politicians to account, whether in government or out of government.
“Is the economy in a bad state? Yes. Is there a heightened security challenge? Yes. But in the wake of the internal crisis and corruption allegations rocking the leadership of the opposition party, especially the Labour Party, one wonders how such opposition can hold the government in power to account.”
Besides squabble over party leadership, Obi’s open alignment with the coalition has also increased tension within the party. Answering questions on the same x space, Obi acknowledged “being involved in coalition talks because of his desire to rescue Nigeria from the drift by aligning with all patriotic Nigerians.” He said of the coalition: “If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue, Zamfara, how to revive our economy, how to make our industries productive, how to put food on the tables of Nigerians…. Count me out. Nigeria is currently at war. We need to do something about it.” He urged Nigerians to see the need to rescue the country with him, stating, “I will bring stability to Nigeria within two years in office. Leaders of Nigeria should sit down in Nigeria and fix Nigeria.”
But a faction loyal to Abure had since reacted calling on the former Anambra governor to relinquish his membership status with the LP. The Labour Party while reiterating its disinterestedness in joining the coalition said that the members of the coalition are power mongers whose only interest was self and not the people.
The party warned Nigerians that the often mouthed ‘new Nigeria is Possible’ is a ruse and cannot be achieved with the assemblage of old, recycled, desperate and frustrated politicians in the coalition.
In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of Labour Party, Obiora Ifoh, the party says that all those who mismanaged Nigeria over the years are the ones that gathered themselves in the coalition while noting that desperate politicians can’t birth new Nigeria.
“We are aware of several nocturnal meetings between Peter Obi and some of our members, lobbying them to join him in his new party. We’re also aware that a number of them have refused to defect with him.
“Labour Party has consistently said it is not part of the coalition and therefore, any of our members who are part of the coalition is given within 48 hours to formally resign his membership of the party.
“Labour Party is not available for people with dual agenda, people with deceptive persona. The party will not avail itself to individuals who have one leg in one Party and another leg elsewhere. These people will claim to be in the Labour Party in the morning, and in the evening, they are in coalition.
“These people are opportunistic politicians who are only interested in relaunching themselves into a circle of power, people who are desperate to continue holding on to power.
The new Nigeria of our dreams can only be realized through the Labour Party and the party is willing to lead Nigerians along that trajectory.”
Obi’s dual loyalty under fire
While ADC courts Obi warmly, and the PDP succinctly wishes to have him, a faction within Obi’s own LP’s warns against divided loyalty. Umar Farouk Ibrahim, representing the Abure-led LP faction, declared that Obi risks being disqualified from securing the LP’s 2027 presidential ticket if he continues his engagement with the ADC coalition.
Ibrahim stressed that the LP would not entertain “half-in, half-out” affiliations, and highlighted Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed as an equally credible contender should Obi be deemed ineligible.
Speaking on national television, Ibrahim said no individual has an automatic claim to the party’s presidential ticket, and warned that Obi must fully align with LP to remain eligible.
“Datti is qualified to contest for the presidency as much as Peter Obi,” he said, referring to Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, Obi’s 2023 running mate.
“But if those people don’t come back to us, they lose that opportunity. There’s no way you’ll continue to romance with other political parties and then still come back with one leg in the Labour Party, no, ab initio, you may be disqualified.”
Another faction, aligned with acting chair Usman Nenadi, appears more accommodating of Obi’s dual positioning. However, Obi’s coalition involvement and LP’s internal crisis, marked by leadership contests between factions, casts shadow over his path to LP’s ticket.
The seeming contradiction, ADC’s urgent pursuit of Obi and LP’s factional resistance, highlights a broader political tension: can the opposition effectively challenge APC if its leading asset faces internal resistance?
ADC: Atiku, Obi camps rivalry escalate
Atiku’s presidential ambition is reportedly shaping the internal structure of the ADC while Obi is said to be struggling for influence. Insiders within the ADC, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, alleged that Atiku financed efforts to take control of the party as a platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
A party source disclosed that most of the ADC’s state chapters, zonal bodies, and even its national leadership are now largely aligned with Atiku.
However, ADC interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, refuted claims that Atiku had taken over the coalition. He insisted that the group remained united in its objective to dislodge Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress in the next election.
On July 3, ADC’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, accused the David Mark-led interim ADC leadership of plotting Atiku’s candidacy.
Recently, on August 4, a leaked memo from the Obidient Movement to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, raised concerns about the alleged sidelining of its members from ADC’s major decision-making processes.
In a document dated July 29, 2025, and signed by the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Tanko Yunusa, Obi’s group accused the coalition of marginalising its members despite their pivotal role in strengthening the political bloc.
The memo reads, “We write on behalf of the Obidient Movement to express our severe grievances regarding recent developments within the coalition’s systems.
“Our people are deliberately excluded at all levels. While we remain committed to the shared vision of building a united and formidable front for the task ahead, we must raise the following issues that our members have repeatedly flagged.”
Listing their grievances, Tanko cited lack of inclusion in major deliberations. “Several of our designated representatives and members are reportedly being excluded from crucial meetings where major decisions affecting the coalition are made. This creates an impression of marginalisation and undermines trust, which is essential for building a sustainable partnership,” he lamented. This indicates that Obi’s camp is being emasculated, portending a no-go area for Obi. Permutations are that Obi might pull out of the coalition arrangement.
PDP card on the table
The leading opposition party has in recent time been making overtures to Obi to return to its fold. The PDP Governors’ Forum chairman and Bauchi State governor, Bala Muhammed has publicly pleaded with Obi to return to its fold.
Also, a two-time member of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, Abduljabbar Rufai, has revealed that the party is in active talks with former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to bring him back ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Rufai while speaking with journalists in Abuja recently, explained that the move is part of the PDP’s wider strategy to unite its members and strengthen its position against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
He described Obi’s possible return as a ‘strategic’ step that could improve the PDP’s chances, especially in the Southeast and South-South regions where Obi enjoys strong support.
“Leaders of the PDP recently visited Peter Obi, and we believe his return to the PDP, a party he once called home, would be highly strategic and impactful.
“Looking at the 2023 polls, it’s clear that Peter Obi garnered the majority of his votes from the Southeast, which has traditionally been a stronghold of the PDP. If we can bring him back, it would be a game-changer for the party and a boost to our electoral prospects,” he said.
PDP woos Jonathan
Obi may meet a dead end if he returns to the PDP as another faction within the leading opposition party is routing for former president Goodluck Jonathan, who is being promised an automatic ticket if he returns to the party.
Daniel Woyengikuro, the PDP’s National Financial Secretary, made this disclosure during an interview with a national newspaper in Abuja. Woyengikuro emphasized Jonathan’s continued influence within the party and the nation’s politics, describing him as the PDP’s national leader.
“Is he not the best candidate for us at this moment? He is not just a former president; he is the leader of the party now. Aside from [former President Olusegun] Obasanjo, the next person in line is him. Goodluck Jonathan is the national leader of this party,” Woyengikuro said.
He confirmed that the PDP has been consulting with Jonathan and his associates, aiming to bring him back into the party’s mainstream leadership as part of a larger strategy to reposition the party and address Nigeria’s growing political and economic challenges.
Dr. Faruk Umar Abubakar is the Commissioner of Health, Sokoto State. Before his appointment by Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, Abubakar, was the Secretary General/Registrar CEO of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) from 2016 to 2024. He is a trained nurse who went on to acquire a doctorate degree in Nursing Education. In recognition of his contributions, he was conferred with the Fellowship of the West African College of Nursing (FWACN). Abubakar has over 35 years’ experience in the health sector. In this interview with Bello Ibrahim, Abubakar speaks about the challenges facing the health sector, which by 2023 when Governor Sokoto assumed office was in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and what he is doing in line with the 9‑Point Smart Agenda of Governor Sokoto to reposition the sector—because, as they say, health is wealth.
Let me start by stating that the appointment of all commissioners is political, except that of the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, which the constitution lists the qualifications that the candidate must have. …specific number of years at the bar etc. So every other position is at the discretion of the governor and he is at liberty to appoint anyone that he believes would add value to his administration.
I am aware of that issue, but in my own case, my appointment was welcomed by the entire professionals in the health sector. And I want to believe that it’s because they know my antecedents.
Having been around for the last 35 years, I have established a very good working relationship with all the professional bodies. I have utmost respect for every profession in the healthcare delivery system as critical stakeholders, because it is about teamwork. So I wasn’t surprised that they celebrated my appointment and have been very supportive.
In return, I have been fair and respectful in my relationship with them. Take the issue of the new National Minimum Wage; I engaged with the governor and thankfully he agreed with me that they deserved to be better remunerated. I am very proud to announce that today the Sokoto State Government pays better than the federal government, such that those who had wanted to leave have withdrawn their letters of resignation. The various professional bodies wrote the governor thanking him for approving a salary package that matches that of the federal government. So being a commissioner is about protecting and advancing the interests of your constituency and ensuring that they have the necessary working tools and a working environment that is conducive. …which is what the governor has been doing since 2023 and they can see the difference with the last administration.
I must thank the governor for his huge investment in the health sector, for ensuring that their allowances are fully paid. At the end of the day the cooperation that a commissioner receives depends on how he leads and his recognition of the other professionals …which is key. A doctor needs medical scientists, nurses, cleaners, pharmacists, etc., to function effectively.
You retired as Registrar/CEO of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria; considering this background, I want to conclude that it wasn’t difficult for you to hit the ground running on your appointment?
Having been in the health sector in the last 35 years, I would say yes—it wasn’t really difficult. Luckily I started from the very scratch as a nurse, and I have worked in hospitals and I interacted with all professionals in the healthcare system… so I have a good understanding of the issues. And my background as a unionist has equally been helpful. And as an administrator, I understand the issues that must be addressed so that we can deliver quality healthcare to our people.
I am lucky to have a governor who truly believes in delivering quality healthcare to the people. He has, for instance, approved my memo for the State Specialist Hospital to run internship programmes for radiography and medical doctors.
We have applied to the Medical and Dental Council for the necessary accreditation. Sokoto State has more than 100 medical doctors who have graduated and they need a specialist hospital for their programmes… so this initiative would solve a big problem for us. Just as we have about 270 medical students on the payroll of the state government. They have been placed on Level 07, which is about ₦82,000 monthly. It’s the same with pharmacy students, medical lab scientists, etc. So we are solving the problem of inadequate personnel and at the same time making life easier for the students and their families. We stand to benefit in many other ways because, being indigenous, they understand the culture of the people. On admission they get scholarships, but once they start their clinical practice they are transferred to the Ministry of Health and the ministry will in turn transfer their documents to the Civil Service Commission, which would process and send their details to the Ministry of Finance for implementation. His Excellency, in his magnanimity, also paid the registration fees of all our foreign‑trained doctors. This has helped address the shortage of medical personnel.
Are these students on bond?
Absolutely yes. They can’t leave until they have served the state for a specific number of years. But I can assure you that they won’t leave because of our package, which will only get better. Allow me to state that Governor Sokoto’s 9‑Point SMART Agenda is no fluke—it’s something that he genuinely means. The State Executive Council recently approved a memo by the ministry that would ensure equitable distribution of manpower between the urban and rural areas. I am thankful to my colleagues for graciously approving the memo.
The beauty of the policy is that every medical professional sponsored by the Sokoto State Government must serve in a rural health facility for a minimum of two years and this is compulsory. These are some of the measures we are putting in place to holistically address the inadequate manpower at the grassroots.
Before I initiated this policy, I ordered a needs assessment and visited all the general hospitals in the 23 local governments and I noticed this gap. The gap is unacceptable… we have excess nurses in the special hospital. Do note that there is a recommended number for hospitals. Everybody wants to work in the urban area, while we have acute shortages in the rural facilities—that’s not okay by me.
My memo was well received such that even the Commissioner for Education wanted it applied to the educational sector, because it’s a strategy that’s innovative.
In addition to the fact they are under bond, to motivate them the governor approved a 10% addition to their basic salary. We foresee a future where people after their compulsory rural posting won’t want to leave. The governor understands how to motivate his workers. On the issue of security, we are working with the security agencies to ensure that our facilities are safe. The governor is not resting to ensure that every inch of the state is safe. It’s important that the rural communities have access to medical care. With qualified medical professionals in the rural areas, there will be a reduction in the number of referred cases. The specialist hospital will truly be a specialist hospital treating only cases referred to it.
What are the chances that Governor Sokoto will return?
By the grace of God, the re‑election of Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto would be a walkover, because of his sterling performance and the fact that the opposition in Sokoto State has been decimated by the spectacular performance of the governor. We’re only waiting for the 2027 elections. We need the governor to consolidate on the good work that he is doing. But we will never take the people for granted, so we will continue to engage and deliver services to them.
So what other things did you find out from the needs assessment that you carried out?
I equally found a health system that was on its knees due to the neglect by the Aminu Tambuwal administration. Infrastructure at the hospitals was practically nonexistent with obsolete equipment, decayed and uninhabitable wards. Even the mattresses were torn into pieces and the beds broken.
The first thing that we did was to urgently provide critical equipment and mattresses. We have equally procured nine ultrasound machines that will be distributed to the general hospitals—3 for each senatorial district. Same with X‑ray machines, one for each geographical zone, so that investigations can be carried out at that level. Our people don’t have to travel to Sokoto for such investigations. To date we have also procured about 240 beds, 240 mattresses, and 240 stands. I want to assure the people of Sokoto State that the governor has just started because he is more than determined to change the story.
Governor Sokoto means business when he says that health is a critical component of his 9‑Point SMART Agenda. The other benefit of my needs assessment is that it enabled me to come up with a strategic framework that would give us the direction to address the problems at the primary healthcare, the secondary and tertiary levels.
So, very important is infrastructural development. We are going to tackle 10 general hospitals in the first instance and we have sent requests to the Ministry of Works to carry out an assessment to enable me to make my submission to His Excellency. I have visited the specialist hospital and the orthopedic hospital. I must say that I was scandalized that the entire maternity ward was without light. How can doctors operate without power? The governor has since approved the installation of solar power—we now have 24‑hour light at the labour room, in the postnatal ward, and in the prenatal ward. We have also acquired incubators for premature babies…there is also 24‑hour power. We have embarked on a comprehensive rehabilitation of the wards. We have provided functional toilet facilities for families and visitors—the era of open defecation is past.
We sank boreholes, with overhead tanks to ensure availability of water 2/4/7. Even though the hospital is almost 100 years old, we can make it functional. To help in the general cleanliness of the hospital, I engaged the services of prisoners. We are working on the drainage system. The environment and general sanitation of the hospital has greatly improved. I know His Excellency is planning on building a new world‑class facility. The other thing I am working on is the attitude to work of our personnel. I have had a series of meetings with them on the need to be diligent and caring in their work. They have no reason to be lackadaisical—especially as the government is prompt in payment of their salaries and allowances. I will no longer accept negligence of duty, where workers abandon their duty posts and leave patients unattended to. The abandoned amenity ward is receiving attention, same with the new theatre. It’s a shame that the equipment has been stolen. I intend to get the hospital functioning at full capacity.
For the record, how many hospitals and healthcare centres do you have?
We have about 824 primary healthcare centres, health posts and clinics across the 23 local government areas. In each of the 240 wards, we have a primary health centre; health posts and clinics in villages—that is what gives us the 824 facilities across the state. Presently, we have about 21 hospitals, meaning at least one general hospital in each LGA. We have two in Tambuwal. It’s only Dange Shuni and Wamakko local governments that presently do not have general hospitals.
Abandoned by the Aminu Tambuwal administration?
Yes, but the government is working assiduously hard to ensure that we have a general hospital in these two local government areas… Dange Shuni and Wamakko. The Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko administration in 2013 awarded the contract for the construction of the hospitals but it was unfortunately abandoned by the Aminu Tambuwal administration.
You were talking about a new world‑class general hospital…
Yes, but meanwhile we’re making efforts to ensure that all our general hospitals are renovated. We started with 10 hospitals. For the rest of the hospitals, His Excellency the Deputy Governor, who is also the Commissioner for Works, has constituted three committees—one for each of the senatorial districts—to assess the hospitals. So we are awaiting the reports from the Ministry of Works. I am grateful to the governor for his unprecedented investment in the health sector.
There is this erroneous assumption that funding is a problem, because we have seen governments pump money into the system without results. As someone who has been in this sector, what is the critical issue that needs to be addressed to get this sector functioning?
Well, accountability is key—especially under Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, who constantly reminds you that it’s the people’s money. So the judicious use of the limited resources is important, and planning. You might have all the money, but without a strategic framework you can squander the resources. Money is important, but planning and prioritization are crucial. In my ministry, I have in a systematic way we address fundamental issues, one at a time. We ensure we have a detailed report of whatever we want to do and that has helped us in achieving results. I will give you an example. Recently the governor sent me a text message: “Honorable Commissioner, do you have an outbreak?” I replied that indeed there were some issues of an outbreak of hepatitis in the prison and that it had been resolved.
He replied that I should investigate further. Eventually we discovered that there was an outbreak of measles. I quickly deployed our epidemiologists to the following villages: Sayyinna, Jabo, Salla, Alassan and Barkeji—all in Tambuwal Local Government Area. We established that 20 children were affected and that three had unfortunately died. We then moved in the team with the necessary drugs and had a camp erected to isolate the children that were affected because we didn’t want it to spread.… so the issue is not always about money—even though money is important.… it’s essentially about planning. This is our approach in tackling every issue. We engage in sensitization and advocacy and that has helped us contain any outbreaks of diseases.
In a nutshell, what are the other major hindrances to healthcare delivery and the policies that you have introduced to overcome such challenges?
The attitude of the healthcare providers and the people themselves is a big issue. Patients, for instance, believe that everything must be provided to them free. They also only go to hospital when a problem has reached an advanced stage—most times beyond the capacity of the hospital in their area. They prefer being treated by chemists who are solely interested in making money. We are working with the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria to sanitize the system. We appreciate that, being close to the people, they offer services, but they should keep to their boundaries. For instance, they shouldn’t be injecting. They should encourage people to use the hospital after administering first-aid treatment. The other major challenge is the state of the hospitals. Many people deserted the hospitals because of the infrastructural decay. With what we have put in place, people are coming back in droves to our facilities. I have insisted that they operate antenatal clinics from once a week to at least three times.
Preventative or curative—which direction are you heading?
Well, we are taking them simultaneously. For the preventative, our approach is to take proactive measures that would prevent diseases from developing or worsening. Some of what we are doing includes putting a surveillance system in place, vaccinations, sensitization on the need for regular check‑ups—for cancer screening, diabetes, etc. And when people get sick, they should be able to get attention. So we’re undertaking the rehabilitation of over 125 primary healthcare centres across the state and the general hospitals to make them conducive with basic equipment. Under the National Health Act, a substantial amount of money was released to all medical facilities. When I came on board, I realized that it wasn’t being utilized to provide basic drugs and other medical supplies. I have since directed that the funds should be put to use. I have signed off on the business plan they submitted. The directive is that these procurements must be at the State Drug and Medical Agency to avoid the issue of fake drugs. We have also accredited four hospitals where women are entitled to free obstetric cases, including Caesarean surgeries free—and the bill will be sent to the National Health Insurance.
Without doubt there have been improvements in the budget for the health sector and you have attested to that fact—and the establishment of a state health insurance scheme, the generation of evidence to inform decision‑making and capacity building. But what are the assurances that this will be sustained?
Well, under my watch I want to assure you that this will be sustained. I am extremely lucky to have a governor who believes that health is wealth. And I hope that those in the system would have embraced our initiatives.
What’s the way forward in getting people to embrace immunization, for instance?
I will shock you with the statistics of our immunization campaigns. Our strategy was to work with the traditional institution, the religious leaders and I must thank the Sultan of Sokoto for his leadership in the various sensitization campaigns. The Sultan convened a meeting with over 82 district heads and some selected religious leaders on the need for them to embrace and propagate the benefits of immunization.
We made it abundantly clear that the children in question are our children, and that if they are not healthy they can’t be future leaders of tomorrow because they will have critical health challenges. As a result, the last round of immunization was near perfect. The number of rejections that were recorded was minimal. We noticed that the rejection rate came down from 4,000 to 1,000. We have not given up on those who refused because every child is important to us.
As health minister, the late Professor Ransome Kuti was categorical that with the advances in science, women shouldn’t be dying of childbirth—and that doctors managing the woman should be charged for manslaughter. Do you think that policy should be enforced to make medical doctors change their attitude to work?
The present Minister of Health, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, is trying to change this situation with several innovations. There is a lot of focus on the issue of maternal and infant mortality. That’s why you have the emphasis on the revitalization of the primary healthcare system. In Nigeria, sustainability of good policies is a problem. Ransome Kuti introduced several programmes like the primary healthcare system which subsequent administrations abandoned because they lacked the political will to implement the reforms.
From your experience managing some of these outbreaks, what are your takeaways moving forward that will help you be better prepared?
There are several. We understand that we need to continue getting better at what we are doing. From the previous happenings, we know that once we start approaching the heat period, we should make adequate preparation and put our surveillance system into action.… ready to respond. At the beginning of the heat season, we now hold workshops for our surveillance officers and epidemiologists so that they are prepared. Because they are the first responders who will alert us about any outbreak.… take the sample which will be sent to the laboratory for investigation. In terms of drugs, we also know what drugs to store.
How well has Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto performed?
Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto has performed fantastically well in delivering on his 9‑Point SMART Agenda. And I am not saying this because I am a member of his cabinet. I only came in last year after my retirement and don’t forget that I am from this state and I know how the state was before he took over—and what he has achieved in two years.
So with every sense of responsibility, the governor is on the right path. He has restored confidence in the capacity of the government to deliver services and he is a man of his words. The story of the former governor not handing over to him, the darkness in the Government House, ministries, the public water works, the failure—or is it the refusal?—to pay the scholarships of our students—all these have been well documented.
I won’t forget the over ₦14 billion pension arrears, etc. Not only has the governor cleared this mess, but he has built houses, constructed roads, invested in agriculture because he wants farmers to earn good income.… without taking any loan.
He is accountable and is providing leadership. He is compassionate and sincerely interested in the welfare of the poor. He has made remarkable progress and he has refused to slow down.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, having lived almost all his life in the state, understands the needs of the people. If he builds a flyover, know that there is a school there and that he doesn’t want our children knocked down by reckless drivers. Look at Mebere, a community that had suffered from flooding and had lost hope until the coming of the governor. Go and see the road networks. It looked impossible, but it has been done.
There are all manner of politicians and political officeholders in the Nigeria political space. Some are noted for incisive oratory. Others have networks in high places. Still, others ride on their affinity and empathy with the people, while others also made their marks on what they do for the people, individually or collectively over the years. Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola aka Yayi, currently on his third term in the Senate and serving in the critical role of Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriations, is a grassroots politician who combines a good dose of all attributes of a grassroots politician with a defining record of performance in offices as his main forte.
His political trajectory in the Nigeria political space is worthy of study and research for scholars desiring to understand the staying power of any politician remaining in the good book of the people for decades.
Yayi has consistently won competitive democratic elections at state and federal levels across two states on six consecutive occasions. That is unprecedented in the history of Nigeria. Such a record of continuous service with verifiable legacies deserves a study and decoding.
The accomplishments of Yayi comes from a dedication in serving the interest of the electorate as much as possible based on fulfilling electoral promises and attending to peculiar needs of people, including religious obligations of the people.
Shortly after the dawn of our current democratic experience in 1999 Yayi decided to join active political participation following his 12 years stint in the Guardian Newspapers as an auditor and the establishment of his accounting consulting firm, SOOTEM Consulting. He was also at the street level in the struggle for re-validation of the June 12 election won by MKO Abiola under the Abacha military regime. He sadly lost his brother via gunning down in the heat of the democratic struggle.
He won his first election into Alimosho Constituency 2 of the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2003 and began a journey that took him to the highest legislative body in Nigeria earning many awards and the accolades as a legislator par excellence.
In his rise in politics, Yayi has set some unprecedented records achieved through his commitment to hard-work, service to people and a spirit of “never say die” on any assignment. At the Lagos State House of Assembly, he was made the Chairman of the then joint Committee on Finance and Appropriation. In that capacity, he was part of the team that midwifed the legislative enactment and reforms that catapulted the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Lagos State from a paltry N5 billion monthly to roughly N50 billion monthly then and presently counting in trillions.
His representation in terms of human resources development and empowerment easily ensured he was given a second term in Lagos State legislature and was there after elected to serve in the Federal House of Representatives, representing Alimosho Federal Constituency, the largest federal constituency in Nigeria, that is bigger than states like Bayelsa and Yobe state in terms of population.
At the 360-member Green Chamber of the National Assembly, Senator Adeola emerged with another record of being appointed as the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, the only constitutional committee of the House of Representatives. This position is usually reserved for ranking opposition legislators. The then Honourable member went on to discharge his duties with the discovery of massive mis-appropriation in government finances. Yayi also got the colonial Audit Act of 1953 Re-Enacted and passed. His performance of his law-making functions and oversights, which led to the then Minister of Petroleum to obtain an injunction restraining the House Committee from investigating her private jet charters, as well as his effective representation in form of empowerment and various entrepreneur training and skills acquisition led to his election as a Senator in 2015 of Lagos West Senatorial District, the largest district in terms of population in Nigeria.
In the 8th Senate, Yayi was initially made a vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Communications but was to make a mark as the pioneer Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, a committee that he brought to limelight through his oversight activities on International Oil Companies (IOCs), particularly in their non-compliance with local content in favour of Nigerians. Not surprisingly, his performance in office as usual earned him a second term in the 9th Senate where he was made the Chairman of Senate Committee on Finance. Under his watch, 4 different Finance Acts 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, were passed to amend several financially related legislations and bring them up to date as well as provide succor and incentives for persons or corporate bodies. Through his committee investigative activities on revenue generation, many MDAs returned hundreds of millions of their IGR to the coffers of government, funds that would have been frivolously spent or already spent. His massive empowerment programmes in education, road, medical, security and other infrastructures as well as training, skills acquisitions and empowerment in equipment and grants that went viral on social media across the nation rivalling some state governors’ in performance.
His performance in touching the lives of constituents was the stuff for another re-election anywhere.
Twenty consecutive years as a parliamentarian at state and federal levels in Lagos State was a long enough service for Lagos State. Senator Adeola decided to finally relocate to his homestead in Ogun State after two missed opportunities in 2015 and 2019. In spite of ill-informed legal obstacles challenging the legality of his decision, all of which he won, Senator Adeola was to make history as the only senator serving in one state and simultaneously contesting and winning election in another state. This was after the judiciary proclaimed that there was no legal hiatus to his daring and unprecedented move. He thus became a serving senator in one state and a senator-elect in another state having won with a landslide victory over his opponents. In the 10th Senate, Senator Adeola was inaugurated as the senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District.
Senator Adeola is indeed a man playing critical roles in national affairs. In the 9th Senate, he was the one who seconded the motion to elect Senator Ahmad Lawan as President of the Senate. At the victory of Senator Lawan, he earned the privilege of leading the newly elected president of the Senate to his presiding seat and taking the iconic picture alongside the mover of the motion and the Clerk of National Assembly. This photograph is only taken once every 4 years except there is a removal of the President of the Senate. And in a historic coincidence, in the 10th Senate, Senator Adeola played the same role in the election of Senator Godswill Akpabio and took the historic photograph. As written this feat is historic in every 4 years and more historical as Senator Adeola is the only senator to have achieved this feat twice in the parliamentary history of Nigeria. He has served as the Chairman of the Public Account Committee of House of Representatives (2011-2015), pioneer Chairman of Senate Committee on Local Content (2017-2019), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance (2019-2023) and now Chairman Senate Committee on Appropriations (2023- till date). His service to the nation over the years earned him one of the prestigious national honour of the Commander of the Order of Niger (CON).
For the young man born 56 years ago in a humble circumstance, it sounds like a fairy tale to see the man playing critical roles in national affairs and development. His steady rise as a technocrat politician winning six elections at state and federal levels across states consecutively apparently marked him out as a tested grassroots politician that cannot be dismissed with a wave of hand.
Born on August 10, 1969 at Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Lagos State to family of Mr. Ayinde Adeola Ogunleye and Madam Abeeni Olasunbo Ogunleye (nee Akinola), Yayi began his education at the State Primary School, Alimosho in Lagos State. On the successful completion of his primary education, he proceeded to Community Grammar School, Akowonjo. Further education took him to the prestigious Ondo State Polytechnic, Owo now Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State where he bagged the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Accounting. Adeola became a Chartered Accountant at a relatively young age. As well as being a Fellow of ICAN (FCA) and Fellow Chartered Taxation Institute (FCTI), he is also a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and Fellow of Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro (FFPI).
Adeola, a converted Christian, is married to Mrs. Temitope Adeola and the union is blessed with children. At the age of 56 years, 22 served as a legislator at state and Federal level and still counting, Adeola is still on the rise, having changed the socio-political and economic landscape of Ogun West in about two years as well as setting development benchmarks in other parts of Ogun State. From all indications, Nigerians have not heard the last from this grassroots politician.
In this piece, Yinka Adeniran looks at the chances of candidates across party lines in their bid to secure the ticket of their parties in the build-up to the general election.
The race for the Agodi Government House is, no doubt, filled with loads of uncertainties and unpredictability. This is because Oyo State politics is not only fluid, it can take unimaginable shape and dimension that beats the permutations of experts.
Ahead of the 2027 governorship elections, scheming and permutations are on the high side, particularly with the level of interest being shown by Governor Seyi Makinde to install a successor.
If Makinde succeeds, he will be the first governor to successfully hand over to a successor since the beginning of the current Fourth Republic.
Although it remains unclear who will emerge as flag bearers across the various political parties, some notable individuals are not hiding their interests in testing their political strength in seeking the Agodi Government House plum job.
Makinde, on his own, had maintained at different fora, his intentions to be succeeded by a person who is much younger than he is, aside from the would-be individual’s ability and capability to uphold, continue, and perhaps build on his legacies.
The governor had even made it known to the ruling People’s Democratic Party his determination to determine who would fly the party’s flag in 2027. The standard in terms of age limit that he set has been seen by some stakeholders as a move to disqualify certain individuals from throwing their hat into the electoral ring in 2027
Truly, no name has been mentioned as to whom the governor is likely to favour with the ticket, and he has been doing well in not showing any sign of interest, publicly, in any particular individual.
However, observers are throwing around some names within the PDP circle as a likely successor or potential interest of the governor.
Adebo Ogundoyin
Ogundoyin is the current (10th) Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly. He emerged as the youngest Speaker of the State Assembly in Nigeria when he first emerged as the Speaker of the 9th Assembly.
The Eruwa-born politician is the current Speaker of the Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly of Nigeria and the son of a late political cum business mogul, Adeseun Ogundoyin.
Observers are bandying Ogundoyin’s name on the premise that Governor Makinde is considering allowing power to rotate out of Ibadan to other zones of the state. This is because other zones, particularly Oke-Ogun, the second largest political zone of the state, have ceaselessly expressed their desire to occupy the governorship seat, which seems to be the exclusive right of Ibadans.
Aside from the power shift, Ogundoyin seems to have all conditions set by the governor in his favour, including age and political loyalty to the governor. In the last six years, he has managed the affairs of the Assembly favourably for the governor, in addition to his growing political influence across the zones of the state.
Adebo Akande
Popularly called Debo Akande, he is a strong and key driver of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration, particularly in the areas of agribusiness initiatives. Currently, he is the Executive Adviser to the Governor on International Cooperation Development and Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA).
He has been instrumental in transforming Oyo State’s agricultural sector, driving agribusiness reform, and making it easier for investors to operate in the state. He also oversaw the development of agribusiness industrial hubs, creating commercial opportunities for small and large-scale investors.
He forged strong partnerships with global organisations, like the World Bank, CGIAR, FAO, USAID, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to secure funding and expertise for Oyo State aside from launching the Youth Enterprise in Agribusiness Programmes (YEAP) to empower thousands of young people through training, mentorship, and access to capital.
Professionally, he holds a director position at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), where he leads agribusiness management globally, and has been involved in various international business travels with the governor.
Adegboyega Adegoke
Chief Adegboyega Adegoke is a prominent Nigerian businessman, politician, and philanthropist. He is the owner of Solution FM in Ibadan and has been actively involved in Oyo State politics.
He has been associated with several political parties, including the Accord Party, All Progressives Congress (APC), and currently, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adegoke has held notable positions, including Director-General of the Oyo Accord Campaign Council in 2022 and has expressed interest in various political offices, including the Oyo South Senatorial district seat and the Oyo State governorship seat.
Beyond politics, Adegoke is known for his philanthropic work, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he supported various communities in Oyo State, including Ibadan, Ibarapa, and Oke-Ogun. His charitable efforts have earned him recognition and respect in the state.
He holds traditional titles, including Aare Onibon Balogun of Ibadanland and Mogaji of Ile Abose, reflecting his community leadership and influence.
Recently, Adegoke made a subtle public announcement of his intentions to explore the possibility of running for governor of Oyo State under the PDP, as his massive billboards are located at various strategic points in the capital city.
Sources hinted that he has begun consultations with party leaders, and his philanthropic activities and business background are seen as strengths in his potential gubernatorial bid.
Niyi Aborisade
Aborisade is another new entrant whose name has been flying around in the airwaves with intentions to vie for the governorship ticket on the platform of the party.
A human rights activist and United Kingdom-trained lawyer, Aborisade returned to Nigeria to pursue politics and contribute to the country’s development.
As a leader, Chief Aborisade, according to sources, has described himself as a born leader with uncommon credentials and governing acumen who advocates for an ideal society with growth and poverty eradication, emphasising social obligation and service to the people of Oyo State.
Aside from the ruling party, more gladiators are also gearing up for a show, especially the main opposition in the state, the All Progressives Congress.
While several factors will determine who will fly the flags of different political parties in state’s 2027 guber polls, some of the gladiators within the APC that are likely to lock horn and slug it out for the party’s ticket include the 2023 party flagbearer, Senator Teslim Folarin; current Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; current House of Representatives member, Remi Oseni; Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacheaus Adedeji, Adebayo Stittu, among others who are yet to make their intentions public.
However, observers are of the view that, with timely and right intervention of President Bola Tinubu, who gets the APC’s ticket, will not be an issue.
No doubt, the APC has sworn to reclaim its lost glory of back-to-back defeat at the hands of the ruling PDP, led by Governor Makinde. In both instances, PDP had taken advantage of discords within the APC.
However, the APC needs to work on itself as the emergence of Olatunji Adewale, popularly known as Murphy, as the party candidate for the August 16 bye-election for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency, is currently causing ripples within the party. Eight of the party aspirants had alleged imposition and the absence of a level playing field in the contest. Their supporters and backers expressed determination not to let it slide.
But, barely 48 hours to the election, was it gathered that all the party leaders, and aspirants, held a closed-door meeting to resolve all grievances and ensure that the party did not lose the seat to the PDP.
Irrespective what happens, one of the following aspirants will emerge APC governorship candidates in the 2027 election in the state:
Adebayo Adelabu
Adelabu’s political journey began when he resigned from the Central Bank of Nigeria to pursue a governorship position in Oyo State under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2019. He won the APC primary election but lost the governorship election to Seyi Makinde of the PDP.
In 2022, Adelabu defected to the Accord Party after losing the APC primary election to Teslim Folarin. He returned to the APC’s fold after his nomination by President Tinubu as a Minister in 2023.
Since assuming the position as the Minister of Power, Adelabu has not hidden his intention to run again for the governorship seat come 2027 and has since been working to ensure a united party. But, it was obvious many party members would not be easily pacified as some still saw his defection to the Accord Party as the bane of the party’s electoral failure in 2023.
At every given opportunity, Adelabu has emphasised his confidence in securing victory and pledged to run an all-inclusive government as a seasoned politician.
Adelabu’s experience in governance and finance has been instrumental in shaping his political career. His governorship ambition has sparked interest in the Oyo State political landscape, with many anticipating a competitive primary election within the APC.
He has been engaging with APC leaders and stakeholders, seeking support for his ambition. With his track record in finance and governance, Adelabu believes he has the necessary expertise to lead Oyo State effectively. His declaration has set the stage for a potentially competitive gubernatorial election in 2027.
Senator Teslim Folarin
A former Senate Leader and APC flag bearer in the 2023 governorship election has largely been silent since his defeat by Governor Makinde.
A seasoned politician with over two decades of experience, he has represented Oyo Central Senatorial District in the Senate and held prominent positions, including Senate Majority Leader and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content.
His legislative achievements include sponsoring crucial bills, such as the Insurance Act and Armed Forces Pension Act. Folarin has also facilitated numerous development projects in Oyo State, including the construction of classrooms, ICT centres, and boreholes. His grassroots mobilisation skills have earned him recognition, and he has interacted with individuals across social and religious circles.
Observers are of the view that Folarin may be testing the waters again, by contesting the party ticket, banking on the premise that the party structure is in his hands.
Folarin’s experience and vision for Oyo State’s progress make him an attractive candidate for the election.
But, despite his impressive track record, Folarin’s relationship with the current APC leadership has been strained. There are rumours of President Tinubu’s purported displeasure with Folarin’s perceived lack of support during the primary elections. Nevertheless, Folarin’s ability to attract investors, promote economic growth, and drive development could bring positive change to Oyo State, making him a strong contender for the 2027 governorship election.
Although speculations are building up around Folarin to dump the APC for the ADC, due to his perceived strained relationship with party bigwigs, especially at the national level, the speculation could not be confirmed. The reality is expected to unfold in a matter of time.
Remi Oseni
A seasoned politician and member of the House of Representatives, representing Ido/Ibarapa East Federal Constituency, he currently chairs the House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
His legislative record and constituency projects have earned him recognition as a dedicated public servant with an ability to connect with people from all walks of life, which has endeared him to many in Oyo State.
He has also made public his intentions to seek the governorship ticket, come 2027, with a liberation agenda that aims to uplift residents through enhanced infrastructure, economic growth, and social empowerment.
He has implemented various empowerment initiatives, including education and skill development programs.
His ambition to run for the 2027 governorship ticket is gaining momentum, with support groups rallying behind his candidacy. He had said his vision for the state aligns with the people’s aspirations, and he’s poised to deliver meaningful development and transformation to the state.
With his impressive track record, capacity, and strong character, Oseni is well-positioned to make a strong bid for the governorship seat in 2027.
As it stands, it remains unclear how many more persons will be joining the race for the battle for the party tickets.
Adebayo Shittu
Barrister Adebayo Shittu is a former Minister of Communications who has declared his intention to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
As a prominent lawyer and philanthropist from Saki in Oyo state’s Oke-Ogun region, Shittu brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. His background in law and communications has equipped him with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of governance.
Shittu, an ally of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, was a member of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), one of the legacy parties that merged to form the APC.
He became the Minister of Communications on November 11, 2015, under President Buhari’s administration, and served until May 28, 2019.
During his tenure, he focused on improving the country’s communication sector and implemented various initiatives to promote the digital economy and postal services. Before becoming minister, Shittu had a long political career, starting as a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly at age 26 in 1979.
As a seasoned politician, Shittu has taken a strong stance on issues affecting Oyo State. He advocates for regional equity and fairness in politics, believing in power rotation among the state’s seven geopolitical zones.
Shittu has also criticized Governor Seyi Makinde’s potential endorsement of a successor, describing it as undemocratic.
His confidence in his ability to govern stems from his nearly 15 years of experience in government and 28 years in the private sector.
Shittu’s ambition is to become the next governor of Oyo State, and he is confident in his ability to deliver good governance.
ADC
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State is facing internal challenges. The party’s Oyo State Chapter has expelled several members, including former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu, and ex-senator Michael Koleoso, for alleged anti-party activities.
Since the infamous sack of notable figures in the party in 2025, not much has been heard from the party in terms of activities and playing its opposition roles in the state.
It must, however, be stated that the party is fielding a former governorship candidate, Femi Dexter Akin-Alamu, as his candidate for the August 16th bye-election for Ibadan North Federal Constituency. It remains unclear if the party will be forming a coalition or alliance with any other party to field any candidate in the 2027 governorship election.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared candidates of the All Progressives Congress, Barr. Omosede Igbinedion and Hon Joseph Ikpea winner of Saturday’s by-election for Ovia Federal Constituency seat and Edo Central Senatorial District respectively.
The results were announced in the early hours of Sunday.
Retuning officer for Ovia Federal Constituency, Clement Ighodaro, said Igbinedion scored a total of 77,053 votes while the PDP candidate, Johnny Aikpitanyi got 3,838 votes.
Candidate of the ADC, Sandra Asemota scored 925 votes.
Igbinedion was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2011.
Prof. Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, the INEC Returning Officer for Edo Central, announced the result in Ubiaja, headquarters of Esan South-East local government area, said Ikpea, polled 105,129 votes.
Ikpea defeated his closest rival, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who scored 15,146 votes.
According to the Returning Officer, “I, Prof. Omo-Iwoze, hereby certified that I am the Returning Officer for the 2025 Edo Central Senatorial District bye election, held on the 16th day of August, 2024.
“That Ikpea Joseph of APC , having satisfied the requirements of the law is hereby declared winner of the election” Prof. Omo-Iwoze said.
On his part, Ikpea said the people have chosen vision over sentiment, progress over politics-as-usual.
“This victory reaffirms the people’s faith in our capacity to deliver. I will not disappoint them.
“I will work hand in hand with our governor, our party, and community leaders to ensure that every part of Edo Central feels the impact of quality representation.
“Governor Monday Okpebholo is a leader of exceptional qualities, strategic, selfless, and deeply connected to the people. His support has been a stabilizing force throughout this journey.”
The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency bye-election, Folajinmi Oyekunle popularly called the Don has won the election.
He was declared the winner by the Returning Officer, Prof Abiodun Oluwadare of the Department of Renewable and Natural Resources, University of Ibadan, after polling a total of 18,404 votes
His closest rival, Olawale Olatunji also known as Murphy of the All Progressive Congress (APC) scored 8,312 votes
Thr Returning Officer (R.O) was accompanied at the announcement by the Oyo State Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr Adeniran Rahmon Tella.
The Collation Officer (CO) for the bye-election was Dr Olusegun Peter Oke, of the Department of Religious Studies, University of Ibadan.
The made the declaration at about 12:30AM in the presence of party agents, security operatives among other stakeholders.
The bye-election took place in 12 Wards and 521 polling units.
Oyekunle won majority of the Wards.
The Chairman, Ibadan North Local Government, Hon Oluwaseun Olufade who was the PDP agent received the copy of the result on behalf of the party.
Other contestants including Femi Dexter Akin-Alamu of the ADC scored 256 votes while candidates of the APGA, SDP and ZLP scored 40, 88 and 18 votes respectively.
Low voters turnout and heavy security presence trailed the conduct of the bye-election. It was necessitated by the sudden dealth of Prince Olaide Aderemi popularly known as Jagaban who died on July 10, 2024, and made the seat vacant.
The late APC lawmaker was 51 years old at the time of his death, which occurred after a brief illness.
Although, seven political parties conducted primaries which was mo stored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Oyo state, only five candidates were cleared to contest the seat which was made vacant by the sudden demise of Prince Olaide Aderemi (popularly called Jagaban) on July 10, 2024.
The contestants for the Bye-election were Akin-Alamu Dexter Femi of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Olatunji Haastrup Adewale of the All Progressive Congress (APC), popularly called Murphy, Odususi Olajumoke Olabisi of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Oyekunle Folajimi of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also known as the Don and Hammed Badmus of Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Ganye by-election into the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Misa Musa Jauro, has been declared winner.
Musa polled a total of 16,923 to beat his counterpart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Buba Muhammad Joda who received 16,794 votes.
The results were determined at 5am Sunday after scores from all 10 wards of the Ganye constituency had been collated.
The results were declared by the INEC Returning Officer of the by-election, Professor Tukur Ahmed.
The by-election was conducted to fill the vacancy in the House of Assembly.
The vacancy was created in May 2024 when the member representing the constituency, Abdulmalik Musa, died.
The deceased was a member of the APC, meaning that the APC now have back the seat at the House of Assembly that it lost.
The results of the Ganye by-election confirmed pre-election awareness that it would be a close fight between the APC and the PDP which are both strong in Ganye
The All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have asked the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) to cancel the by-election for Bagwai/Shanono Constituency and the rerun for Ghari/Tsanyawa Constituency in Kano State held on Saturday.
The APC and PDP, who are the strongest opposition parties in the state, in separate statements, gave “widespread violence and disruption of the process” as reasons the polls should be canceled.
Kano Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, on Saturday confirmed the arrest of 288 thugs with dangerous weapons for various electoral offenses, including violence.
APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said the elections were marred by “extreme violence and disruption by armed thugs across several polling units” in the affected areas.
“Verifiable reports from Shanono and Bagwai Local Government Areas and Ghari constituency have voters fleeing polling areas, with deployed security personnel overwhelmed by the violence, making the prospects of a credible election impossible,” he said.
Kano PDP Chairman, Yusuf Ado Kibiya, said the umbrella party was alarmed by reports of intimidation, thuggery and other actions that undermine the democratic process.
“The use of violence or threat of violence to influence voters and candidates, and the outcome of the election are unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
“Such conducts, not only endangers lives, but destroys public trust in our democratic institutions.
“Let it be known that a free and fair election is the foundation of representative democracy. We urge all authorities to act decisively to safeguard that principle and to ensure the will of the people is reflected, without fear or favour,” Kibiya said.
The APC argued that allowing the exercise to continue would amount to endorsing electoral violence and undermining the integrity of the democratic process.
“Proceeding with the Shanono/Bagwai Kano State Constituency bye-election and Ghari rerun election in the atmosphere of utter brigandage and outright violent voter intimidation will be against democratic dictates of free, fair and peaceful election, and set a dangerous precedent for undesirable and unacceptable electoral heist,” Morka said stated.
He urged the electoral body to “immediately cancel” the bye-election and rerun “to protect the sanctity of the ballot” and safeguard the country’s democracy.
In his statement, Kibiya said: “We, the PDP in Kano State, express deep concern over the conduct surrounding the bye-election for the Shanono/Bagwai State Assembly Seat.
“The death of the former representative last year has already placed a heavy burden on our constituents, who deserve a transparent, peaceful, and credible process.
“We reject the behavior observed from some quarters, which we believe is aimed at bending the electoral process to the advantage of particular interests.
“We call on the Independence National Electoral Commission to ensure a level playing field for all 10 party candidates, including the PDP, with strict enforcement of the electoral rules and timely provision of necessary materials and security for voters.
“Law Enforcement and Security Agencies should uphold the right to peaceful assembly, protect voters, and decisively deter any form of intimidation, violence, or vote- buying.
“The Kano State Government and national leaders should refrain from inflammatory statements and actions that escalate tensions and to demonstrate commitment to a transparent, credible and peaceful electoral process.
“The authorities should investigate reported violation of electoral laws and sanction offenders in accordance with the law.
“Civil society, media and election observers should continue to monitor the process, report anomalies, and provide independent assessments to reinforce accountability.”
