Voters in Nigeria’s Oyo State are set to participate in a critical parliamentary bye-election on August 16, 2025, to fill the vacant Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat following the death of its former representative. The contest, involving five candidates from 19 registered political parties, has become a focal point for major parties like the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) to assert dominance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The vacancy arose after the July 2024 death of Musliudeen Olaide Akinremi, a two-term APC lawmaker, at age 51. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed preparations for the vote across 12 electoral wards in Ibadan North, encompassing areas such as Bodija, Mokola, University of Ibadan, and Agodi Gate. While 19 parties initially registered interest, only five candidates were cleared to contest, though INEC did not clarify the reduction. The approved nominees include Adewale Olatunji (APC), Fola Oyekunle (PDP), Dexter Akin-Alamu (African Democratic Congress), Olabisi Odususi (All Progressives Grand Alliance), and Hammed Badmus (Zenith Labour Party).
INEC’s Oyo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Adeniran Tella, assured stakeholders at a recent meeting in Ibadan of the commission’s readiness, emphasizing transparency and timely delivery of election materials. “The success of this bye-election rests on our collective commitment to fairness,” Tella stated, urging parties to collaborate for peaceful polling.
Campaigns have intensified, with PDP Governor Seyi Makinde declaring Oyo a “PDP stronghold” during a rally at Bodija International Market. He endorsed his former Deputy Chief of Staff, Oyekunle, as the party’s candidate, citing his legislative experience and alignment with the state’s development agenda. “Victory here will prove Oyo belongs to the PDP,” Makinde asserted, dismissing opposition prospects.
Meanwhile, APC Chairman Olayide Abas appealed to voters to honor the legacy of the late Akinremi by backing Olatunji, whom he described as a “passionate successor” capable of surpassing the lawmaker’s record. Abas criticized rivals for fielding candidates he claimed lacked legislative influence, arguing that Ibadan North’s interests were best served by a representative from the ruling federal opposition bloc.
Analysts view the poll as a proxy battle for electoral momentum, with outcomes likely shaping strategies for 2027. The race also tests INEC’s operational efficiency amid scrutiny over logistical challenges observed in past Nigerian elections. With campaigns now spanning door-to-door outreach and public rallies, the focus remains on voter turnout and the commission’s ability to uphold credibility in a politically charged environment.
