In a surprising development, the All Progressives Congress, APC, has secured crucial victories in the recently concluded State Assembly by-elections in Taraba, a state long considered as a stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, officially declared the APC candidates winners after final results were collated from the concerned constituencies.
The by-elections were held to fill vacant legislative seats created by the death or resignation of former lawmakers.
The APC candidate, Abner Shittu, claimed victory in the Karim 1 constituency, defeating his PDP challenger by a comfortable margin, further deepening the APC’s inroads into PDP controlled territory.
Election observers reported peaceful conduct and moderate voter turnout in both states. INEC commended voters, security agencies, and election officials for ensuring a smooth process and reaffirmed its commitment to transparent, credible and inclusive elections.
In its reaction, the APC in Taraba described the outcome as a clear sign of growing public confidence in its policy direction, crediting the wins to effective grassroots mobilization and strategic engagement with local communities.
“The APC’s victory, small as it may appear, is a loud warning for the PDP. It shows that politics is no longer about assumed loyalty. It’s about strategy, visibility and connection with the people,” an analyst said.
Observers noted that the APC’s success was the result of sustained groundwork and its ability to exploit internal cracks within the PDP, including complacency and lack of unity.
“Karim-1 should not be viewed as just a by-election. It reflects the current mood of the electorate. Voter loyalty is shifting, and the PDP must act decisively if it wants to remain relevant,” another analyst commented.
With these wins, the APC has no only expanded its size on the Taraba State House of Assembly but also issued a bold statement ahead of the next elections.
As the 2027 general elections approach, analysts warn that unless the PDP restructures, heals internal divisions, and reconnects with its grassroots base, the ruling APC could further consolidate its hold even in regions previously considered opposition strongholds.
