Opposition parties, including the African Democratic Congress, New Nigeria Peoples Party, and Peoples Democratic Party, boycotted the by-election for the Ungogo and Kano Municipal constituencies in Kano State on Saturday. Their withdrawal was prompted by reported irregularities, concerns about potential violence, and procedural arrangements that they argued were biased in favor of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This boycott reflects the ongoing tensions and dissatisfaction with the electoral process in the region.

In contrast, the APC scored significant victories in the House of Assembly by-elections held in Rivers State. Candidates Napoleon Ukalikpe and Burabari Loloo were announced winners for the Ahoada East Constituency 2 and Khana Constituency 2, respectively, by the Independent National Electoral Commission. These wins for the APC underscore its continuing strength and influence in parts of Nigeria, contrasting sharply with the dissent visible in Kano State.

The by-elections were necessitated by the passing of Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, who were serving as elected representatives from the NNPP before their deaths in December 2025. The Chairman of the ADC, Musa Ungogo, cited the importance of maintaining peace during the Ramadan period, which ultimately influenced their decision to abstain from participating in the election process, signaling the complex dynamics surrounding Nigeria’s political landscape as it navigates challenges of governance and electoral integrity.