APC Candidate Secures Victory in Munya Constituency Bye-Election in Niger State.
By Yahaya Zakka Minna.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the election of Mathew Dogara Daje, the candidate from the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the bye-election held in Munya Constituency on Saturday, August 16.
Daje triumphed with a significant margin, securing over 6,000 votes over his closest rival, Hon. Sabo Sunday Adabyinlo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This bye-election was necessitated by the passing of Hon. Joseph Haruna Duza of the PDP, creating a vacancy in the Niger State House of Assembly.
The election process unfolded largely peacefully, although it experienced varying levels of voter turnout across different polling stations. Accreditation and voting commenced promptly at 8:30 a.m., with many voters arriving early to exercise their civic responsibilities. Official voting concluded at 3:30 p.m., and INEC officials ensured that all individuals in line were permitted to cast their votes, adhering to established electoral protocols.
Heightened security measures were evident throughout Munya, with a substantial presence of armed personnel across all polling units, some of which were patrolled by over 30 uniformed officers. Prior to the election, state governor Mohammed Umaru Bago reassured citizens of comprehensive security arrangements.
Despite the reinforced security, the electoral atmosphere remained calm, with voters patiently waiting to participate in the process. The election featured three competing political parties: the APC, PDP, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Following the closing of polls, vote counting commenced immediately, revealing a pronounced lead for the APC across several polling units.
While the election was generally praised for its peaceful conduct by observers and residents, some political tensions persisted. The PDP candidate, Hon. Sabo Sunday Adabyinlo, raised concerns regarding alleged misuse of state resources to sway the election in favor of the APC, accusing the ruling party of engaging in vote buying and intimidation.
In his acceptance speech, Mathew Dogara Daje expressed gratitude to Governor Umaru Bago and his supporters in the Munya Local Government for their encouragement throughout the electoral process.
The behavior of participants during the election drew commendations from residents and observers alike, with hopes that this election could serve as a benchmark for future electoral activities in Niger State
