President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the winners of the August 16 by-elections held in 16 constituencies across 12 states of the federation, commending both the electorate and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring a peaceful and credible exercise.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the outcome as a testament to the growing strength of Nigeria’s democracy.
“The President is particularly impressed that these by-elections were conducted without the usual incidents of violence or manipulation. This demonstrates that INEC is steadily improving and that Nigerians are embracing democratic values,” Onanuga said.
According to the results declared by INEC, the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured victories in 12 constituencies, while the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) won two, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clinched one, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) also won one.
Onanuga stressed that the APC’s performance was a reflection of renewed trust in the Tinubu administration. “Our party’s victory in 12 constituencies shows that Nigerians believe in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
This mandate is a responsibility we do not take lightly,” he stated.The President also congratulated the new APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, on what he described as a “resounding first victory” under his leadership.
“Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda has shown leadership capacity and proven that when popular candidates are presented, backed by unity of purpose among leaders, the APC is unstoppable,” Onanuga quoted the President as saying.
Beyond partisan triumph, Tinubu commended other political parties for their participation, urging them to remain committed to fair play and democratic maturity.
“President Tinubu believes that democracy is not a zero-sum game. He salutes APGA, PDP, and NNPP for their wins and calls on all politicians to embrace sportsmanship, magnanimity, and the spirit of fair contest,” Onanuga added.
Reaffirming Tinubu’s pledge to deliver on his campaign promises, Onanuga noted: “The President has assured Nigerians that the Renewed Hope agenda is not just a slogan.
He is committed to building a more secure, prosperous, and united Nigeria. As he often says, ‘Our destination is a better Nigeria, and by the grace of God, we will take the people there.’”
