President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated all winners of the recently conducted bye-elections held across 16 constituencies in 12 states, describing the outcome as a positive sign of Nigeria’s growing democratic maturity.
The President made the remarks in a statement issued by his media office on Sunday, August 17, following the official announcement of results by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to the results, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged victorious in 12 constituencies, while the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) secured two seats. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) each won one constituency.
President Tinubu hailed the elections as largely peaceful and praised INEC for conducting what he described as “credible and hitch-free polls,” free of major violence or irregularities.
“These bye-elections mark another important step in the consolidation of our democracy,” Tinubu stated. “The outcomes reflect the will of the people and the growing strength of our democratic institutions.”
In his message, the President specifically congratulated the APC’s new National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, on what he called a resounding first electoral victory under his leadership.
“Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda has shown leadership capacity and demonstrated what is achievable when popular candidates are fielded and when unity of purpose guides party leaders,” Tinubu said.
The bye-elections marked the first major test for the APC under its new leadership, and the results have been interpreted by political observers as a vote of confidence in the party’s direction and organisation.
The President also commended APC governors, party stakeholders, and loyal supporters nationwide for their unity and commitment in rallying behind the party’s candidates.
“To all APC faithful and the electorate, thank you for the confidence reposed in our party. Be assured that our *Renewed Hope* slogan is not just a catchphrase,” he added. “Our destination is a better, more secure, and more prosperous Nigeria, and by the Grace of God, we shall take you there.”
While celebrating his party’s performance, President Tinubu also extended his appreciation to other political parties and candidates who participated in the bye-elections.
He urged them to continue to uphold the values of democracy, especially the spirit of fair play, tolerance, and magnanimity in both victory and defeat.
“Democracy thrives when we all play by the rules and respect the choice of the people,” he noted. “The peaceful conduct of these elections proves that Nigeria is capable of organising credible polls when all stakeholders commit to democratic principles.”
He further called on all elected representatives, regardless of party affiliation, to focus on delivering quality governance to their constituents and improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
The President also reserved praise for INEC, noting the commission’s efficient coordination and overall professionalism in managing the bye-elections.
Observers from civil society and local election monitors also reported that the polls were conducted peacefully in most of the affected constituencies, with minimal logistical challenges compared to past exercises.
Although there were minor incidents in a few areas, INEC and security agencies were quick to address them, ensuring that the overall integrity of the elections was maintained.
Analysts say this is a good sign as Nigeria continues to strengthen its electoral system ahead of future general elections.
Reactions have continued to trail the bye-election results across the country, with APC supporters celebrating the outcome as evidence of the party’s growing grassroots support.
Party leaders and governors have expressed confidence in the APC’s ability to build on the success and extend its influence in upcoming elections.
The bye-elections, though limited in scale, are being viewed as an important barometer of political sentiment across the country. With multiple parties participating and voters turning out in decent numbers, the polls have offered insights into voter confidence in leadership at both state and national levels.
President Tinubu’s message of unity and continued democratic progress comes at a time when Nigeria is facing economic, security, and political challenges. His remarks suggest a continued focus on building trust between government institutions and the citizens they serve.
As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, many see these bye-elections—and the peaceful manner in which they were conducted—as a reminder that progress is possible when leaders and citizens commit to the democratic process.
