Tinubu hails exercise as opposition alleges violence, malpractice
The outcome of last Saturday’s bye-elections in 16 state and federal constituencies across 13 states has sparked sharp reactions, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) celebrating victory while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) dismissed the exercise as deeply flawed.
ADC Rejects Results, Alleges Vote Buying, Violence
The ADC, in a statement by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the polls were marred by violence, vote buying, intimidation of voters and administrative lapses.
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The party accused security operatives and electoral officials of complicity, warning that the conduct of the elections was “a dress rehearsal for 2027.”
“In some states, nearly 300 thugs armed with rifles, knives and cutlasses were arrested on election day. Is this democracy or banditry disguised as voting?” the statement queried.
It further alleged that vote buyers were caught with millions of naira while ballot box snatching and BVAS malfunction undermined the process.
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The ADC urged President Tinubu to “rise above partisanship” and guarantee credible elections, while calling on INEC to sanction compromised officials and restore public confidence in the electoral system.
PDP Chieftain: ‘It’s a Sham, 2027 in Danger Without Reforms’
Echoing similar concerns, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, described the polls as a sham, saying state institutions were used to disenfranchise voters.
“What happened yesterday was not only a sham, it was also a pointer to what will happen in 2027 if electoral reforms are not done,” Osadolor said, urging civil society to push for urgent reforms.
Tinubu Applauds INEC, Congratulates Winners
In contrast, President Bola Tinubu praised INEC for the “largely peaceful and well-managed” elections and congratulated all victorious candidates.
According to official results, APC won 12 seats, APGA secured two, while PDP and NNPP took one constituency each.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President lauded APC’s new national chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, for delivering the party’s first win under his leadership, noting that unity among party leaders and governors contributed to the victory.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the “Renewed Hope” agenda, pledging to steer Nigeria towards stability and prosperity.
He commended all political parties and candidates for participating, urging them to maintain fair play, respect and maturity in future contests.