Iliyasu Abdullahi bah
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially declared Honorable Abena Shitu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the Karim-Lamido I State Constituency by-election in Taraba State. The announcement, made on Saturday, confirmed Shitu’s victory after a closely contested race against candidates from rival political parties.
According to the final results released by INEC, the APC candidate secured a total of 5,901 votes, defeating his closest opponent, Honorable Ali Kanda of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 5,527 votes, The margin of victory stood at 374 votes, reflecting a highly competitive election in the constituency.
Meanwhile, Honorable Bandina Garba of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) came in third place with 2,069 votes, while other participating parties trailed behind with significantly lower figures. The election, which witnessed a moderate voter turnout, was conducted under tight security to prevent disruptions and electoral malpractice.
The declaration of Abena Shitu as the winner marks a significant political shift in the constituency, which has traditionally been a PDP stronghold. Political analysts suggest that this outcome could signal changing voter sentiments in Taraba State ahead of future elections.
INEC officials commended the peaceful conduct of the election, though opposition parties have raised concerns over alleged irregularities in some polling units. The PDP has yet to issue an official statement on whether it will challenge the results.
This victory strengthens the APC’s presence in Taraba State and adds momentum to the party’s efforts to expand its influence in Nigeria’s North-East region. As the newly elected representative, Abena Shitu is expected to be sworn in soon to assume legislative duties in the Taraba State House of Assembly.