Constituencies Where APC Lost and Parties Who Won in the By-Election

The recent by-elections across Nigeria delivered a blow to the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the ruling party lost four major seats to opposition rivals in Anambra, Kano, and Oyo States. 

The results, announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday, signaled a shift in the political landscape, with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) making significant gains.

APGA sweeps two seats in Anambra

In Anambra South Senatorial District, APGA’s Emmanuel Nwachukwu secured a decisive win against APC’s Azuka Okwuosa. 

Nwachukwu polled over 90,000 votes, leaving his closest challenger far behind. The seat became vacant following the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in July 2024, and the contest drew candidates from 12 different parties.

APGA also celebrated victory in the Onitsha North Constituency 1 House of Assembly seat. Ifeoma Azikiwe of APGA triumphed over her rivals, including APC’s Ezennia Ojekwe, consolidating the party’s stronghold in the state.

NNPP claims Kano assembly seat

In Kano State, the NNPP reaffirmed its influence with a big win in the Bagwai/Shanono State Assembly by-election. 

Ali Alhassan of the NNPP defeated the APC candidate by a wide margin, continuing the party’s dominance in parts of Kano. The election was held to replace a late lawmaker from the constituency.

PDP wins in Oyo

In Oyo State, the Peoples Democratic Party added to APC’s woes with a victory in the Ibadan North Federal Constituency. PDP’s Fola Oyekunle was declared the winner after polling more than double the votes of APC’s Adewale Olatunji. 

This result further highlighted PDP’s strength in the South West.

Is this a setback for APC

With these results, APC lost all four by-elections in contention, two to APGA, one to NNPP, and one to PDP. The outcome points to a growing challenge for the ruling party, as opposition parties strengthen their base ahead of future elections.

The by-elections also highlighted the role of governors who actively campaigned for their party’s candidates. Governors Charles Soludo (Anambra), Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), and Seyi Makinde (Oyo) emerged with boosted political credibility, while APC leaders were left to reassess strategies after a disappointing outing.