The Nation Newspaper

Tag: APC

Abia APC chieftain challenges Otti over ₦54bn school renovation controversy

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Prince Paul Ikonne, has called on Governor Alex Otti to provide clarity on the alleged ₦54 billion school renovation expenditure, accusing him of distracting the public with contradictions.

Governor Otti, during his monthly media chat last weekend, dismissed claims that ₦54 billion was missing from the state treasury, describing the allegations as baseless and stemming from ignorance about government budgeting and spending.

Reacting in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ujo Justice, Ikonne questioned why a governor who prides himself on having “seasoned accountants” in his administration would contradict his own government’s records.

He insisted that Abians deserve answers on “where the schools are, and where the ₦54 billion went.”

The APC stalwart recalled that similar sums had been earmarked in the past, including ₦18 billion reportedly set aside for school renovations, with little to show on the ground.

Citing a recent online investigative report, Ikonne noted that official budget performance documents contradict Otti’s claims.

According to the report, Abia State recorded ₦54.066 billion spent on rehabilitation and repairs of public schools in the last quarter of 2024 alone, while total expenditure for the fiscal year stood at ₦58.323 billion.

Ikonne argued that if the governor insists only ₦2.1 billion was spent on schools, then he must explain why his own administration’s records show otherwise.

He further pointed to the approved 2024 budget, which allocated ₦64.7 billion for the renovation or modelling of 51 schools, averaging ₦1.26 billion per school — a figure he said raises more questions than answers.

The APC leader urged Governor Otti to be transparent and accountable, stressing that education is too critical an issue for Abians to be left in the dark.

“This data,” Ikonne stressed, “makes it clear that the governor is either deliberately misleading Abians or is unaware of what his government is signing off.”

Read Also: Otti, S’east leaders, APC stakeholders hail Tinubu’s appointment of Peter Eze as FCC commissioner

He welcomed the Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), which is demanding a breakdown of the ₦54 billion, including the list of schools supposedly renovated, their names, locations, and the nature of works done.

“Governor Otti should stop hiding behind semantics. Budgets are estimates, but expenditures are facts. The documents clearly show ₦54 billion was reported as spent between October and December 2024. If he disputes this, let him publish the schools. Abians are not asking for excuses — we are asking for evidence,” Ikonne said.

The APC chieftain concluded by urging the governor to prioritize truth over propaganda. He added that Dr. Otti should realize that leadership is about accountability, not storytelling. He cannot claim to be the face of transparency while avoiding the simplest of questions: show us the schools.

August 19, 2025
‘Minister’s governorship aspiration disuniting APC in A’Ibom’, stalwarts allege

Some stalwarts of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in Akwa Ibom have alleged that the governorship aspiration of the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo was causing disunity in the party.

In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu on Monday, the party stalwarts from 29 out of the 31 local government areas of the state said the Ekpo’s actions have become a liability to the party’s unity and success in the state.

The letter was signed by Rt Hon Michael Essien(Ini),Obong Anthony John(Itu), Comrade Victor Okon(Uruan), Pst David Udoh(Ibiono Ibom), Lawrence Edet(Uyo),David Linus-Ibesikpo(Ibesikpo Asutan) local government areas

Others are Asua Effiong(Etinan), Vincent Etuk(Nsit Atai), Samuel Samuel(Abak),Emmanuel Chris,(Ika)
Iniemem Effiong(Ikot Ekpene), Edidiong Okon(Mkpat Enin), Steve Udofia, (Ikot Abasi) among others

They demanded for the immediate sack of the Minister for allegedly allowing his personal ambition to stop him from aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.

“His actions and behavior have become a liability to the party’s unity and success in the state, and we strongly believe that it is in the best interest of the party and the nation to consider his immediate sack.

Read Also: APC candidate rejects Anambra South result

“It has come to our attention that the Minister is placing his inordinate gubernatorial ambition above the party’s interest and your re-election bid in 2027. His selfish interests are clouding his judgment, and he is more focused on positioning himself for a future political contest than on delivering results for the party.

“We find it unacceptable that a minister entrusted with the responsibility of managing a critical sector of the economy is more concerned with his personal political ambitions.

“Furthermore, the Minister’s track record in his immediate ward is a testament to his ineffectiveness as a leader. He has consistently failed to deliver for any political party in any election, and his inability to mobilize support for the APC in his own ward is a clear indication of his weakness as a political leader. It is astonishing that despite this, he has been retained in the Federal Executive Council.

“We are also deeply disturbed by the Minister’s role in sowing seeds of discord between the Senate President and the Governor of Akwa Ibom State. His actions are undermining the party’s unity and creating divisions that are detrimental to our collective success. For the APC to succeed in Akwa Ibom State, we need a minister who is a grassroots political general, not someone who is busy amassing wealth at the expense of party unity.

“Moreover, it has been brought to our notice that the Minister is using fronts to corner strategic gas investments for himself and his family. This blatant conflict of interest is unacceptable and raises serious questions about his integrity and commitment to public service. His boastful claims of being one of the ten richest politicians in the South-South are a clear indication of his priorities, which are misaligned with the values of the APC.

“In light of these egregious actions, we humbly request that you consider dropping Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo from the Federal Executive Council. His continued presence in the cabinet is a liability that threatens the success of your re-election bid and the unity of the party in Akwa Ibom State. We believe that it is time for a change and that a more dedicated and committed leader should be appointed to the Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas).

“We urge you, Mr. President, to take immediate action to address this situation and ensure that the APC remains a formidable force in Akwa Ibom State. We are confident that with your leadership and vision, the party will continue to thrive and deliver results for the Nigerian people”, the letter stated in parts.

August 19, 2025
APC candidate rejects Anambra South result

All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the Anambra South Senatorial by-election Azuka Okwuosa, has rejected the outcome of Saturday’s polls in the state.

The by-election was held across seven councils – Aguata, Ekwusigo, Ihiala, Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Orumba North and Orumba South local government areas.

Okwuosa expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of the poll at a news conference yesterday in Oraifite, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of the State. He alleged widespread irregularities and electoral malpractice.

He claimed that the election was marred by rigging and manipulation. According to him, the polls lacked integrity, competence, neutrality, and moral standing, and should therefore be rejected outright.

Read Also: ‘Nigerian visa applicants to show five years social media activity’

“What we witnessed was a charade. APGA and government forces deployed state security, including Operation Udo-ga-chi, to create unfair advantage and compromise the process,” Okwuosa said.

The APC standard bearer alleged that despite police banning vigilante groups from election duty, they were present across polling units, harassing and intimidating voters.

He claimed that the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) government of colluding with some Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials to sabotage the electoral process.

According to him, the development dealt a severe blow to Nigeria’s democratic integrity, stressing that security forces failed to protect citizens against real threats like kidnappers.

“The people deserve free, fair and credible elections, not exercises where outcomes are predetermined and compromised,” he said.

August 19, 2025
Ex-PDP chairman, LP leaders defect to APC in Ondo

An erstwhile chairman of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akoko North-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Alaba Arogunmolase, with some prominent leaders of the Labour Party (LP), on Monday officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Other notable defectors include Chiefs Odeja, Giwa, Bolaji, Ojo Akinniyi, and Prince Adeniyi Olanipekun, as well as all PDP ward chairmen in Akoko North-West.

The defectors said their decision to join the APC was influenced by the leadership style of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the grassroots mobilisation drive of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Speaking at the defection rally at the Motor Park in Oke Agbe-Akoko, the defectors lauded Dr. Tunji-Ojo for his outstanding contributions to Akoko land, especially Oke Agbe, which they described as a source of pride to the people of the area.

Read Also: Boost for Nigerian shrimp as U.S. bans non-compliant fishing

Receiving the new members, the Ondo APC Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin assured them of equal rights and privileges within the party.

Adetimehin was joined by members of the State Executive Committee, the local government APC chairman, Hon. Kehinde Obanla and Olumuyiwa Asagunla, who represented Dr. Tunji-Ojo at the event.

Asagunla, who also serves as the Director General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, welcomed the new entrants on behalf of the Interior Minister, promising them a level playing field in the APC.

He said, “What we are witnessing today is a demonstration of faith in the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, through the Renewed Hope Agenda, is already delivering tangible dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

“The APC is a home of progress, development, and inclusiveness, and your decision to join us is a step into a brighter and more rewarding political future.”

Remarking, Adetimehin urged the defectors to spread the message of the APC’s renewed hope agenda and remain steadfast in their support for the party to ensure a stronger outing in the 2027 elections.

The rally attracted party leaders, community stakeholders, youths, and women from across the Akoko axis, signalling the growing popularity of the APC in Ondo State.

August 18, 2025
Oyo: APC must work harder for 2027 after Ibadan North defeat — Fagade

The Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Dr. Abisoye Fagade, has said that the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s loss in Saturday’s by-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency is a clear signal that the party has more work to do ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Fagade made the remark on Monday during the commissioning of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term campaign office in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The event, held at Iyana Church, Ibadan, was attended by APC chieftains including Senator Hamzat Ademola Adeseun, former Lagelu LG Chairman Chief Timothy Kunle Sanda, Hon. Remi Adebayo, Alhaji Bashiru Akanbi, Chief James Ajuwon, Hon. Sikiru Adebayo, and Mr. Gafar Oyebade, among others.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Folajimi Oyekunle, had defeated APC’s Adewale Haastrup Olatunji and other contenders in the by-election.

Speaking with journalists, Fagade said the outcome of the poll showed that the APC must reassess and strengthen its strategies. He stressed that the party had learned its lessons from the defeat and assured that it would come back stronger in future elections.

He said, “Let me comment on what happened in Oyo State on Saturday. What happened in Oyo State on Saturday shows that we still have a lot of work to do.

“And we have been doing it. This one shows that we are serious. With what happened on Saturday, it shows that we will come back stronger. This is my local government and there is no way they will do something of this nature that I will not be there”.

Read Also: Group hails Matawalle for APC’s strong performance in Zamfara bye-election

Adeseun, while speaking, noted that Tinubu’s second term is non-negotiable.

He used the opportunity to appeal to Nigerians to support the second term of Tinubu.

He said, “So, this is our best chance, we have to use it maximally. Tinubu’s second term is non-negotiable. If you look at the results of the Saturday’s bye-election across the country, we had 16 bye-elections, APC won in 12, other political parties shared 4.

“That is an indication that is telling us where Nigerians are going. All the people making noise, they are just deceiving themselves. Yoruba will spend eight years”.

Coordinator of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu second term campaign team in the local government area, Hon. Sikiru Adebayo while speaking, said that Tinubu is already clearing the mess left behind by his predecessors.

He advised Nigerians to give him more time to take Nigeria to the Promised Land.

He said, “We had some issues before Tinubu came and he is settling it. We want to be sensitive to the need to give Mr President enough time to right the wrong.”

August 18, 2025
Oyo APC rejects Ibadan North by-election result, alleges vote buying, intimidation

The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected the outcome of Saturday’s by-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency, accusing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Folajimi Oyekunle, of winning through voter intimidation.

The party alleged that the election was fraught with irregularities, raising questions about the credibility of Oyekunle’s victory.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had on Sunday declared Oyekunle of the PDP winner of the poll after securing the highest number of votes, while Hon. Adewale Olatunji of the APC came second.

In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC reaffirmed its commitment to participatory democracy and insisted on the sanctity of free and fair elections.

He said, “Regrettably, established cases of irregularities which characterised the conduct of the by-election of last Saturday in Ibadan North Federal Constituency by INEC have brought back the ugly memory of former President Obasanjo era when election was dubbed a do-or-die affair by the PDP.

“This time again, electoral officials and security agents were compromised as they watched helplessly while various sharp practices were being perpetrated in most of the polling units.

Read Also: APC rejects Kano Bagwai/Shanono Assembly rerun poll result

“We have details of the heavy sums of money made available to some PDP chieftains who were stationed across all polling booths to buy votes.

“As if this was not enough, some INEC officials were made to allow people without PVCs who were brought by some PDP agents to vote as this was the case in most of the Wards. In Ward 07, a particular PDP stalwart was caught in the act but he was later freed by the security agents.

“Also, handlers of the Park Management System (PMS) mobilized and equipped hundreds of their members for the purpose of intimidating residents and compromising the smooth conduct of the by-election.

“These fierce-looking and weapon-wielding men moved round Yemetu, Alli-Iwo, Bodija, Sango, Mokola, Agbowo among other places within Ibadan North local government council to unleash terror on the residents while voting was taking place and they got away with it.

“While we are compiling details of irregularities which marred the Saturday by-election, we shall make public our final decision on the matter in due course even as we appeal to all members and support of our great Party in the state to remain calm and keep faith in the leadership of the APC at all levels.”

August 18, 2025
APC rejects Kano Bagwai/Shanono Assembly rerun poll result

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected the outcome of the Bagwai/Shanono State Assembly rerun poll won by the candidate of the New Nigeria people’s Party (NNPP) in Kano.

The party’s key stakeholders, led by the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, who addressed a press conference in Kano described the election as a “charade,” saying the party would challenge legitimacy of the outcome in court.

Atta said the election was marred by violence caused by heavily armed thugs who snatched ballot materials in favour of the NNPP candidate.

According to the APC stakeholders, the affected constituency is a stronghold of the APC and the campaign rally, led by the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, indicated that APC was going to win the rerun.

The APC, which defeated NNPP to reclaim the Ghari/Tsanyawa seat at the state House of Assembly in Saturday’s by-election, believed it would have also triumphed in the Bagwai/Shanono rerun, if the poll process was not disrupted by NNPP armed thugs.

“Disturbingly, the political brigandage by the NNPP reached its crescendo on the election day, despite our early alerts to the security agencies and assurances from the Police and the DSS that the situation would be brought under control before the commencement of voting.

“As early as 5:am, yesterday (Saturday), Shanono and Bagwai local government areas were invaded by thousands of armed thugs wielding various dangerous weapons including guns allegedly recruited from within and outside Kano State including Brinin Gwari in Kaduna, Kebbi and Katsina states by the Kano State Government and the ruling party (NNPP) in the state.

“The thugs were conveyed in hundreds of trucks and vehicles. When the information reached us, the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jubrin, reported the matter to security agencies in Kano and Abuja to get the criminals arrested or chased away to forestall the breakdown of law and order before, during and after the election in the two local government areas and beyond.

“But, before the security operatives got there, the criminals had infiltrated the villages.

“Sighting unknown and strange faces in their communities, the residents and voters ran away for safety and relocated to neighbouring villages in Gwarzo and Bichi local government areas.

“As a result of this, the NNPP took over the polling units, hijacked the ballot papers and result sheets, thumped the ballot papers and allocated votes to their party.

“No election took place in Shanono/Bagwai.

Read Also: Group hails Matawalle for APC’s strong performance in Zamfara bye-election

“The people of Bagwai/Shanono, who have been patiently waiting for the rerun since the demise of their representative, Halilu Ibrahim Kundila on April 6, last year, were disenfranchised, traumatised and chased away from their homes by the NNPP thugs imported from neighbouring states and countries,” the minister said.

The APC therefore, called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately cancel the election and conduct a fresh, free, fair and transparent election for the people of Bagwai/Shanono State Constituency.

It also urged security agencies to ensure the prosecution of all the armed thugs who have been arrested for electoral offences.

“The integrity of our democratic process is paramount. We owe it to ourselves, to future generations and to the principles of democracy, to defend it,” the party added.

August 18, 2025
Group hails Matawalle for APC’s strong performance in Zamfara bye-election

The Zamfara Good Governance Group (ZGGG) has praised the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for ensuring that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains a strong political force in the state following the recent bye-election.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the group’s president, Murtala Abdullahi, commended Matawalle for his role in sustaining the APC’s grassroots strength even after leaving office as governor two years ago.

Abdullahi said the results collated by independent observers so far were a testament to the minister’s enduring political influence and commitment to his party.

“Despite not holding the reins of state government, Matawalle has shown uncommon leadership and loyalty to the APC. The bye-election has once again demonstrated his firm connection with the people and his ability to inspire confidence in our great party. Zamfara remains firmly rooted in the APC because of the structures and trust he built during his tenure,” Abdullahi said.

The group noted that the electoral process was marred by attempts from the current deputy governor, chief of staff to the governor, some commissioners, and other senior government officials to tilt the contest, but praised APC supporters for standing their ground in defence of their votes.

“Zamfara people stood tall in the face of undue pressure. Supporters of our party displayed courage, resilience, and faith in democracy. Their determination to protect their choice is commendable and has ensured that the APC continues to show dominance in Zamfara’s political space,” Abdullahi stated.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared the bye-election inconclusive due to irregularities in some polling units and announced that a new date for the supplementary poll would soon be fixed.

The ZGGG urged the commission to maintain transparency in the process and guarantee that the final outcome reflects the will of the people.

“Democracy must be defended at all costs. We call on INEC to ensure that the supplementary election is free, fair, and credible. The people of Zamfara have spoken, and their voice must not be silenced by manipulation or malpractice,” Abdullahi added.

The group also highlighted the importance of Matawalle’s continued involvement in the affairs of Zamfara despite his national responsibilities as Minister of State for Defence.

Abdullahi said the minister’s accessibility and grassroots engagement had kept the APC united and motivated.

“Matawalle’s presence is still strongly felt in Zamfara. His ability to balance his role at the federal level with his commitment to his home state has kept the party machinery active and formidable. This is why, even in a challenging electoral environment, the APC continues to perform strongly,” he noted.

The ZGGG further urged APC members and stakeholders to consolidate on the momentum by closing ranks and working for the collective interest of the people.

Abdullahi emphasised that internal unity and focus on service delivery would strengthen the APC ahead of future elections.

Read Also: FG targets $12 million revenue from global market electronic navigational charts – Matawalle

Abdullahi concluded by reaffirming the ZGGG’s support for Matawalle and the APC, insisting that the minister’s contributions to the party and the state would remain a reference point in Zamfara’s political history.

“The legacy of resilience and commitment that Matawalle represents is the reason Zamfara continues to stand with the APC. We are confident that the final result will confirm the people’s choice,” Abdullahi said.

The group also called on security agencies to provide adequate protection for voters during the supplementary poll, stressing that the courage displayed by citizens in the initial exercise must not be undermined.

“Zamfara people deserve a credible electoral process that reflects their will. We trust that INEC will soon announce a date for the supplementary election and that the voices of our people will ultimately prevail,” Abdullahi added.

August 18, 2025
APC chieftain hails Ondo monarch on fifth anniversary

The Bobaselu of Upenmen and a chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Chief Gbenga Eleduma, has congratulated Oba Ebenezer Adesanmi Adewunmi Ogunmolasuyi, the Olupenmen of Upenmen, on the occasion of his fifth coronation anniversary.

In a statement signed by Eleduma, he lauded the monarch’s exemplary leadership, describing his reign as a beacon of hope and progress for the people of Upenmen.

Under his leadership, Upenmen has witnessed strides in community engagement, cultural preservation and initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of his subjects.

He said the fifth anniversary was not merely a ceremonial milestone, but also a testament to the monarch’s visionary leadership and dedication to upholding the rich tradition of Upenmen people, while steering them toward modernity.

Read Also: APC trounces opposition in legislative by-elections

The APC chieftain noted that Oba Ogunmolasuyi’s reign had been characterised by inclusivity, wisdom and a deep connection with his subjects, earning him widespread respect and admiration across the region.

The businessman also acknowledged the monarch’s pivotal role in promoting harmony among diverse groups in Upenmen, fostering an environment where development projects and community-driven initiatives had thrived.

“Oba Ogunmolasuyi’s reign has been a blessing to Upenmen and beyond. His ability to unite people and champion progress is a legacy that will endure.”

Eleduma prayed for the monarch’s continued good health, divine wisdom and strength to lead Upenmen to greater heights, and expressed optimism that Olupenmen’s reign would continue to inspire positive transformation and bring prosperity to the community for many years to come.

The businessman called on Upenmen indigenes at home and in the diaspora to support their traditional ruler and back his vision for a more prosperous and united community.

August 18, 2025
APC trounces opposition in legislative by-elections
- Ruling party wins one Senate, four House of Reps, seven House of Assembly seats
- APGA takes one Senate, House of Assembly seats
- PDP wins in Oyo
- ADC fails to fly
The All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a resounding victory in the weekend’s by-elections, consolidating its position as the ruling party.

Out of the 17 federal and state legislative seats in contest, it won in 12, conceding only four.

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), which won one Senate seat and an Assembly seat both in Anambra State, came a distant second.

Both the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won one seat each in Kano and Oyo.

The election for a Zamfara State House of Assembly seat was declared inconclusive by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The Atiku Abubakar-led coalition political party –the African Democratic Congress (ADC) – failed to make an impact.

It lost its deposit in the first contest it was involved in after the takeover by defectors under the leadership of Senator David Mark as Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary.

The by-elections became necessary due to either the resignation or demise of lawmakers elected in the 2023 general election.

The results of the by-elections, which were the first to be held since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was inaugurated in 2023, reflected the consolidation of power by the ruling parties at the sub-national units, except in Adamawa State, where APC defeated the PDP in Ganye Constituency and in Taraba, where APC also upset the PDP in Karim Constituency.

The APC won in Edo, the PDP won in Oyo, and APGA won in Anambra.

In Kano, APC and PDP urged INEC to cancel the by-elections in Shanono/Bagwai and Ghari constituencies, alleging malpractices and intimidation.

President Tinubu, who expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the elections, congratulated the winners and the participating parties, urging them to contribute to the deepening of democracy.

He noted that the election was hitch-free and devoid of violence across the constituencies.

The President congratulated the APC National Chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, for the first victory recorded under his leadership.

He said: “The Chairman has shown leadership capacity and demonstrated what is achievable when popular candidates are fielded and with unity of purpose among party leaders.”

Edo State

APC candidate for the Edo Central District, Joseph Ikpea, defeated his PDP challenger.

Ikpea recorded 105,129 votes while the PDP candidate Prince Joe Okojie scored 15,146.

The seat became vacant following the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo as governor.

In Ovia Constituency, Omosede Igbinedion was elected into the House of Representatives to fill the vacancy created by the election of Denis Idahosa as deputy governor.

She polled 77,053 votes to defeat her challengers from the PDP and ADC, who scored 3,838 and 925.

Anambra

APGA candidate Emmanuel Nwachukwu scored 90,408 votes to defeat the APC candidate, Azuka Okwuosa, who got 19,847 votes. The candidate of ADC, Donald Amangbo, came third with 2,889 votes.

The by-election was necessitated by the demise of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of the Young Peoples Party (YPP) last year.

Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi campaigned vigorously for the ADC candidate.

INEC also announced Ifeoma Azikiwe of APGA as the winner of the House of Assembly poll in Onitsha North Constituency.

The Returning Officer, Ibiam Ekpe, said she scored 7,774 votes to defeat Justina Azuka of ADC, who polled 1,909 votes.

The candidates of the APC, Ezennia Ojekwe, and the YPP flagbearer, Njideka Ndiwe, scored 1,371 and 655 votes.

Kano

NNPP candidate Ali Alhassan won the Bagwai/Shanono State Assembly by-election with 16,198 votes, defeating the APC candidate, who polled 5,347.

In the Ghari/Tsanyawa state constituency, APC’s Garba Gwarmai got 31,472, defeating NNPP’s Yusuf Maigado, who scored 27,931.

Kaduna

In Chikun/Kajuru federal constituency, APC’s Fidelix Bagudu scored 34,580 votes to defeat candidates of the PDP and ADC, who polled 11,491 and 3,477 votes.

In the Basawa Constituency, INEC declared Dahiru Umar-Sani of the APC as the winner.

He got 10,996 votes to defeat his closest rival, Muazu Danyaro of PDP, who scored 5,499 votes.

Trailing the APC and PDP were DanBala Usman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), who scored 811, and Mahmuda Almustapha of ADC, who polled 146 votes.

Read Also: Ondo APC group donates cash to hospital patients

In Zaria Kewaye, the electoral commission announced Isa Mohammed of the APC as the winner of the House of Assembly poll.

He got 26,613 votes, defeating SDP’s Nuhu Muazu, who polled 5,721 and PDP’s Mahmud Wappa, who scored 5,331.

Oyo

The PDP candidate, Fola Oyekunle, won the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election.

The Returning Officer, Abiodun Oluwadare, said he scored 18,404 votes to defeat APC’s Adewale Olatunji, who got 8,312.

The candidate of the ADC, Femi Akin-Alamu, polled 88 votes; APGA’s Olabisi Olajumoke had 40 votes, and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP)’s Hammed Badmus got 18 votes.

Ogun

INEC declared APC’s Adesola Elegbeji as the winner in Remo Federal Constituency.

Mrs. Elegbeji won with 41,237 votes to defeat PDP’s Bolarinwa Oluwole, who scored 14,324.

ADC candidate Oso Solomon Oluwaseyi won 271 votes.

Kogi

In Okura Constituency, APC’s Hassan Shado secured 55,073 votes to defeat his PDP rival, who polled 1,038 votes.

The candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) came third with 445 votes.

Jigawa

APC’s Rabiu Mukhtar, who won in Garki/Babura Federal Constituency, polled 38,449 votes to defeat Isah Auwalu of the PDP, who got 13,519 votes.

NNPP’s Sabo Salisu received 2,931 votes while Muktar Babangida of ZLP got 31 votes.

Niger

The APC candidate, Dogari Daje, won in Munya Constituency.

He polled 12,556 votes to defeat PDP’s Sabon Sunday, who scored 5,646 votes.

Adamawa

In Adamawa, APC’s Misa Musa narrowly won with 15,923 votes to beat his opponent, Buba Muhammad of the PDP, who polled 15,794.

The ADC candidate got 42 votes; APGA 14, AAC 17, and AA 2 votes.

Taraba

INEC declared Abner Shittu of the APC as the winner in Karim 1 Constituency.

Zamfara by-election inconclusive

INEC declared the by-election in Zamfara State inconclusive after cancelling it in Sakajiki and Kambarawa wards.

The Returning Officer, Lawal Sa’adu of the Federal University Gusau, said the total number of registered voters in the affected polling units was 5,446, while 3,265 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) were collected.

He explained that the APC scored 7,001 votes, while the PDP scored 5,339 votes, leaving a margin of 1,662 votes.

Sa’adu said since the margin was less than the total number of PVCs collected in the cancelled polling units, the election was inconclusive.

He cited Section 24, Sub-section 2 and 3, Section 47, Sub-section 3, and Section 51, Sub-section 2 of the Electoral Act 2022 as reasons.

Tinubu hails winners, lauds INEC for hitch-free polls

President Tinubu, according to a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, said: “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.”

President Tinubu also commended all parties and candidates who participated in the by-elections, urging them to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship, fair play and magnanimity, which he described as the bedrock of a resilient and enduring democracy.

Victory a referendum on our government, says APC

Through its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC commended Nigerians for their support, which resulted in a massive victory for the party’s candidates at the re-run elections.

Morka noted: “The outcome of the election is yet another solid endorsement of President Bola Tinubu’s 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.

“We commend the President and leader of our great party for creating a level playing field for the bye-election contest, as well as our progressive governors, devoted party leaders, members and supporters for their sacrificial efforts and contribution towards this electoral victory.

“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 RHA into meaningful benefits for the people.”

The party congratulated Prof Yilwatda on the first dominant victory under his leadership.

“It is a strong pointer to greater things to come,” Morka said.

Applauding INEC for the successful conduct of the by-elections, the APC hailed all security agencies for maintaining peace and order, despite cases of election violence and voter suppression in some districts.

“Again, our deepest gratitude remains with the Nigerian electorate, and we urge all Nigerians to sustain their support for our great party and Mr. President as he continues to pave a clear and steady path of prosperity for this and future generations.”
August 18, 2025