Nigerians are voting today in by-elections across 16 constituencies in 12 states, in what analysts describe as a crucial test of strength for the country’s major political parties.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that 3,553,659 registered voters are eligible to participate in the exercise, spread across 32 local government areas, 356 wards, and 6,987 polling units.
The elections, covering two senatorial districts, five federal constituencies, and nine state constituencies, have been marked by heightened political rivalry.
INEC on Friday announced compliance with a Federal High Court ruling allowing the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidates to take part in the polls.
However, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) adopted by a coalition of opposition groups accused the commission of being under pressure to favour a particular party. The ADC urged INEC to “redeem its image” through transparency.
Deep cracks within opposition parties have also come to the fore. Labour Party’s factional chairman, Julius Abure, accused the party’s presidential candidate and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, of “switching parties out of desperation for power,” after reports emerged that Obi asked his supporters to back the ADC candidate.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the ADC-led coalition, the Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso-led New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), and the factionalised Labour Party are all vying to assert influence.
Political observers say today’s contests will help determine the parties’ relevance ahead of future national elections.
According to INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education, Sam Olumekun, “all arrangements had been concluded” for today’s polls.
He urged stakeholders “to adhere strictly to the provisions of the law, regulations, and guidelines” to ensure a smooth process.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, explained that the by-elections were necessitated by deaths, resignations, and other vacancies declared since the inauguration of the current National and State Assemblies in June 2023.
“You may recall that in February last year, the commission conducted nine by-elections to fill vacancies resulting from the death or resignation of members,” he said. “Since then, more vacancies have been declared across the country.”
The electoral commission said 30,451 officials have been deployed for the exercise, while security agencies have assured adequate protection for voters and election personnel. However, polls in Rivers’ Khana II and Zamfara’s Talata Mafara South constituencies remain suspended due to security and legal concerns.
Meanwhile, INEC has also announced that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will resume nationwide on Monday, August 18, with online pre-registration, followed by physical registration beginning August 25 at 811 state and local government offices.
