Nigeria’s by-elections have brought a major political shift, with the opposition suffering heavy defeats in its long-held bastions. The African Democratic Congress endured a crushing setback in Kaduna State, which it had controlled since the return of democracy in 1999.
The ruling party won decisively, securing 34,000 votes against just 11,000 for the People’s Democratic Party in Kaduna, while also achieving sweeping victories in other constituencies, including Basawa and Remo Federal.
The outcome was a major disappointment for the opposition, whose rallies had drawn large crowds just days before the vote. It also dealt a blow to the influence of prominent figures, as former Kaduna governor and ex-presidential candidate Peter Obi failed to mobilize support for opposition candidates.
Analysts attribute the results to the strong control exerted by state governors over the electoral process and financial resources, while opposition leaders have so far remained silent as they reassess their strategies following this crushing defeat.
