By Arthur Obi Opara
The All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged dominant in Saturday’s by-elections, winning 12 out of 16 contested constituencies across 12 states, according to results released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The ruling party secured victories in state assembly elections in Adamawa, Taraba, Niger, Ekiti, Ogun, and one seat in Kano. It also won House of Representatives seats in Jigawa, Ogun, Kaduna, and Edo, alongside a Senate seat in Edo.
Opposition parties shared the remaining seats. The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) claimed wins in Anambra’s Senate and House of Assembly elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured a House of Representatives seat in Oyo, while the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) won a House of Representatives seat in Kano.
Reacting to the outcome, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated all winners, commending INEC for conducting elections he described as “hitch-free and largely devoid of violence.”
The President also hailed the performance of the APC under its newly elected National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who oversaw his first electoral contest since assuming office.
“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,” Tinubu said in a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu praised APC governors and stakeholders for their contributions to the victories, while assuring Nigerians that the party’s “Renewed Hope” agenda was on course.
“To all APC faithful and the electorate, thank you for the confidence reposed in our party. Be assured that our Renewed Hope slogan is not a mere slogan. Our destination is a better, more secure and prosperous Nigeria. We shall take you there, by the Grace of God,” he said.
The President further commended opposition parties and candidates who participated in the polls, urging them to embrace sportsmanship and fair play as “enablers of enduring democracy.”
