David Awoyode
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced Mathew Dogara Daje, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as winner of the Munya Constituency bye-election conducted on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
APC Defeats PDP With Wide Margin
Daje secured victory over Hon. Sabo Sunday Adabyinlo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), winning by a margin of more than 6,000 votes.
The election was organized to fill the vacant seat left by Hon. Joseph Haruna Duza of the PDP, who passed away earlier in 2025.
Three Political Parties Contested
The bye-election featured candidates from three parties—the APC, PDP, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Smooth Voting Amid Heavy Security
Voting commenced promptly at 8:30 a.m. in most polling units, with early voter turnout reported.
Although some stations experienced high participation and others low, the atmosphere remained peaceful despite the presence of up to 30 security officers in certain locations.
Relocation of Polling Units Over Security Concerns
INEC relocated polling units in five wards—Kuchi, Beni, Dangunu, Kabila, and Kazai—to safer venues due to security risks.
Voting Closes Without Incident
Balloting officially ended at 3:30 p.m., though officials ensured that voters already in line at the deadline were allowed to cast their votes, in line with electoral guidelines.
PDP Candidate Rejects Outcome
The PDP’s Hon. Adabyinlo dismissed the result, alleging that state resources were deployed to tilt the election in APC’s favour, and accused the ruling party of vote buying and intimidation.
APC Candidate Thanks Supporters
In his acceptance speech, APC’s Daje expressed appreciation to Governor Umaru Bago and party loyalists in Munya Local Government for their support during the election.
