PDP’s Folajinmi Oyekunle Wins Ibadan North By-Election, Reclaims Seat After 14 Years
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has secured a major political victory in Oyo State as its candidate, Folajinmi Oyekunle, emerged winner of the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election held on Saturday.
Announcing the results at the collation centre in Ikolaba High School, Ibadan, the Returning Officer, Professor Abiodun Oluwadare of the University of Ibadan, declared Oyekunle winner after he polled 18,404 votes.
Oyekunle defeated his closest rival, Adewale Olatunji (Murphy) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who garnered 8,312 votes. Other contestants finished far behind, with Femi Akin-Alamu (ADC) recording 88 votes, while Olabisi Olajumoke (APGA) managed just 40 votes.
“That Folajinmi Oyekunle of the Peoples Democratic Party, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared the winner of the election,” Prof. Oluwadare announced.
With this victory, Oyekunle will officially replace the late lawmaker, Musiliu Olaide Akinremi (Jagaban) of the APC, who passed away on July 10, 2024, leaving the seat vacant.
This win marks a historic comeback for the PDP, as the party reclaims the Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat for the first time since 2011.
Low Voter Turnout Mars Election
Despite INEC officials arriving at most polling units as early as 7:30 a.m., the election was characterized by a poor voter turnout. Reports from several wards, including Bodija, showed scanty voter presence even after full preparations had been made by electoral officials and security operatives.
At Ward 10, Unit 27, Bodija Housing Corporation, the first voter, Miss Oluwaseun Omisakin, arrived at 9:07 a.m. and completed the process within five minutes—an indication of the low participation that persisted throughout the day.
