APC Dominates Nigeria’s Bye-Elections: As Some Say, Troubles Loom for Opposition Ahead of 2027 Presidency.

APC Dominates Nigeria’s Bye-Elections: As Some Say, Troubles Loom for Opposition Ahead of 2027 Presidency.

The Nigerian World

The news as it trends.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has carried most of the recent bye-elections in Nigeria, signaling a potential setback for Peter Obi’s and Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambitions.

While Obi’s Labour Party made waves in the 2023 general elections, the latest results suggest a shift in voter sentiment.

Analysts say this could complicate both Atiku and Obi’s path to building a national coalition strong enough to challenge the APC in 2027.

Critics argue that the bye-election outcomes reflect deeper issues: voter apathy, electoral irregularities, and the strategic use of state resources.

Supporters of APC, however, see the results as a reaffirmation of the party’s grassroots strength.

The question now is whether Atiku and Peter Obi can recalibrate their strategies, reenergize their base, and maintain relevance in a political landscape that seems increasingly tilted toward the incumbents.

What Are Bye-Elections in Nigeria?

In Nigeria, bye-elections (or by-elections) are often held to fill vacant legislative seats when a sitting member dies, resigns, or is disqualified.

If a senator or representative passes away or leaves office before their term ends, a bye-election is organized to elect someone to serve the remainder of that term.

Though smaller in scale than general elections, these contests often serve as a litmus test for party strength and public sentiment between major election cycles.

That’s why political analysts and parties watch them closely—they offer insight into the evolving political landscape.

Yetunde B reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog.