The African Democratic Congress (ADC), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have boycotted the Kano State House of Assembly by-election, citing alleged irregularities and fears of violence.

The by-election, conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was held to fill vacant seats in Ungogo and Kano Municipal constituencies following the deaths of two NNPP lawmakers in December 2025.

Opposition Raises Concerns in Kano

Kano opposition parties alleged that the process was structured to favour the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). ADC State Chairman, Musa Ungogo, said the party chose to step aside to maintain peace during Ramadan.

INEC’s State Electoral Commissioner, Abdu Zango, attributed low voter turnout to Ramadan and the perception that the poll was not a major election. He maintained that the exercise was peaceful with adequate security deployment.

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, commended INEC and security agencies, describing the election as orderly and a reflection of growing political maturity in the state.

APC Secures Victory in Rivers By-Elections

In Rivers State, APC candidates won both contested seats in the House of Assembly by-elections.

In Ahoada East Constituency 2, APC’s Napoleon Ukalikpe secured 3,980 votes to defeat other contenders. The Returning Officer, Prof. Rosemary Ogbo, declared him duly elected after meeting constitutional requirements.

Similarly, in Khana Constituency 2, APC’s Burabari Loloo polled 7,647 votes to emerge winner.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Rivers, Prof. Gabriel Yomere, described the election as peaceful despite reports of low voter turnout in some areas, noting that security personnel ensured a calm atmosphere throughout the process.