Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have successfully conducted primary elections to select their respective candidates for the upcoming House of Representatives by-election in Garki/Babura Federal Constituency, Jigawa State.
The by-election is scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for August 16, 2025, following the demise of the constituency’s former representative, Hon. Isa Dogon Yaro, who passed away on May 9, 2024.
The NNPP primary election took place at the party’s Babura Local Government Secretariat where delegates gathered to cast their votes in a keenly contested exercise. The Chief Returning Officer, Muhammad Gako, announced Salisu Sabo as the winner after securing an overwhelming 114 votes out of the total ballots cast.
In his victory speech, Sabo expressed gratitude to party members and pledged to foster unity and development within the constituency. “I promise to collaborate with all stakeholders to improve secondary education and advocate for merit-based leadership that truly serves the people’s needs,” he declared. Sabo also vowed to mobilize voters ahead of the by-election, emphasizing the importance of electing a representative committed to grassroots development.
Meanwhile, the APC held its primary election at the Duplex Event Center in Babura, under the supervision of the Primary Election Committee Chairman, Ismaila Gadaka, who described the exercise as “peaceful, transparent, and credible.” After a smooth voting process, Rabiu Garki emerged as the party’s flagbearer, polling 110 votes to defeat his closest rival.
Garki, in his acceptance speech, extended appreciation to Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, party leaders, and delegates for their support. He outlined his campaign focus, stating, “My priority will be youth empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development to uplift the living standards of our people.”He further promised to run an inclusive campaign, engaging stakeholders across the constituency to secure victory in the by-election.
By-Election Set for August 16 as Political Rivalry Heats Up With both parties now fielding their candidates, the stage is set for a competitive by-election in Garki/Babura.
INEC has assured stakeholders of its readiness to conduct a free and fair election, urging candidates to adhere to electoral guidelines. As campaigns intensify, voters will be looking for tangible solutions to pressing issues such as education, unemployment, and infrastructure development.
The outcome of the by-election could signal shifting political dynamics in Jigawa State, with both the NNPP and APC seeking to consolidate their influence ahead of future elections.